Evaluation of the feasibility of consumption of non-potable water from rainwater harvesting systems in Campus I, of the University of São Paulo, in São Carlos

Abstract

The increase of world population and the intensity of human activities with environmental impacts are massively damaging water resources and thus altering the hydrological cycle, bringing drastic consequences for the population. The main responsible for the degradation of this resource is the urban development: use and land in a disorderly manner and without any planning, soil sealing, forest clearing, increased the release of waste and sewage directly into rivers and reservoirs, affecting the quality and quantity of water available. These changes, added with the irrational use of potable water have created an actual shortage of water suitable for consumption and that requires immediate and affordable solutions to alleviate the pressure on hydric resources. The rain water harvesting is a simple technique that has been used in several countries and contributes to the reduction of impacts, as it decreases the amount of water to be drained and offers an alternative with low environmental cost for the non-potable water use.The main objective of this research is to assess whether the consumption of drinking water in the Campus I, of San Carlos, University of Sao Paulo, would be supplied with the ability to capture and store rainwater. For it is proposed a system to capture rain water and the results will be evaluated from the analysis of technical and financial feasibility of the project. The site was chosen because the university is a major center for the dissemination of knowledge and should be an example in the dissemination and implementation of projects aimed at improving and preserving the environment.