THE THREE PILLARS OF SUSTAINABILITY AND THEIR ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE

Bullitt Center, Seattle

Sustainability has become a crucial challenge and aspiration for today’s society, particularly in architecture and urban design. At its heart, sustainability means addressing the needs of the present while ensuring that future generations can also thrive. This vital principle is underpinned by the "Three Pillars of Sustainability": environmental, social, and economic aspects. Embracing and weaving together these three dimensions is essential for fostering resilient, responsible, and progressive architectural practices that will shape a better future for all.

DIAGRAM 1:  Three Pillars of Sustainability

THE THREE PILLARS OF SUSTAINABILITY (GENERAL OVERVIEW)

1. Environmental Sustainability (Ecological)

Environmental sustainability involves the preservation and responsible management of our natural ecosystems and resources. We must recognize the importance of minimizing our impact on the planet by actively reducing pollution, conserving biodiversity, and using resources wisely. By doing so, we can ensure that our natural environments continue to thrive and provide the vital ecosystem services that all life depends on. Adopting practices such as promoting renewable energy, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, protecting our natural habitats, and focusing on waste reduction can make a significant difference. Embracing environmental sustainability is not just an option; it is essential for securing the long-term health and future of our planet for generations to come.

2. Social Sustainability

Social sustainability is vital for ensuring the well-being of both current and future generations. It embodies essential values such as equity, inclusion, health, safety, and community development. A truly socially sustainable society guarantees access to vital services, strengthens social bonds, and empowers individuals and communities to flourish. Recognizing the integral role of social systems in overall sustainability, we must advocate for fair policies, respect for diverse cultures, and inclusive governance. By championing practices like inclusive urban planning, fair labor standards, accessible healthcare and education, and the celebration of cultural diversity, we lay the foundation for a thriving society that benefits everyone.

3. Economic Sustainability

Economic sustainability is essential for ensuring that our economic systems can thrive over the long term while effectively managing resources. It strikes a crucial balance between financial viability and the well-being of our environment and society. By fostering an economically sustainable society, we embrace innovation, enhance efficiency, and build resilience, all while steering clear of practices that jeopardize our financial future or exhaust our natural resources. Effective strategies, such as adopting sustainable business models, creating circular economies, and investing in green technologies, will pave the way for a prosperous future. By prioritizing economic sustainability, we can guarantee that our development not only endures but also uplifts both ecological health and human dignity for generations to come.

III. The Three Pillars in Sustainable Architecture

1. Environmental Sustainability in Architecture

Environmental sustainability in architecture is not just a trend; it’s a necessity for our planet’s future. Designing buildings that minimize ecological footprints and foster a connection with nature is crucial. By carefully selecting sustainable materials and employing energy-efficient technologies, architects can create spaces that harmonize with the environment. Incorporating passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation, daylighting, and thermal mass, further enhances a building’s performance. By adding renewable energy systems, green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and innovative waste management solutions, architects can ensure their projects are truly sustainable. The Bullitt Center in Seattle (Please see cover photo) stands as a striking example of this commitment, often hailed as the "greenest commercial building in the world," showcasing systems that achieve net-zero energy, water, and waste. Embracing these design principles will lead us to a more sustainable and thriving future.

2. Social Sustainability in Architecture

Social sustainability in architecture is essential for creating spaces that not only serve their functions but also enrich our communities. By designing environments that are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background, we can foster a sense of belonging and connection. Emphasizing communal spaces encourages social interactions, while prioritizing health and safety ensures the well-being of all users. Projects like Maggie's Centres in the UK showcase the power of socially sustainable architecture, providing compassionate environments for cancer care that uplift patients through thoughtful, human-centered design. These centers harness the benefits of natural light, open spaces, and supportive environments, transforming the experience of care into one that promotes healing and hope.

Maggie's Centre, Carring Cross, London

Roof Garden of Maggie's Centre, London

3. Economic Sustainability in Architecture

Economic sustainability in architecture is crucial for creating buildings that not only meet our needs today but also remain cost-effective over their entire life cycle. By considering factors such as initial construction costs alongside long-term operational expenses, maintenance, and adaptability, we can ensure a smart investment. Key strategies include utilizing durable, low-maintenance materials, designing for energy efficiency, and adopting modular or prefabricated construction methods to significantly reduce waste and costs. A shining example is the BedZED (Beddington Zero Energy Development) in London, which showcases the power of energy-saving materials and renewable energy sources in a design that minimizes environmental impact while ensuring economic feasibility. Embracing these principles is essential for a sustainable future in architecture.

BedZED, London

FINAL THOUGHTS

The three pillars of sustainability—environmental, social, and economic—are intricately linked and crucial to the success of sustainable architecture. For architecture professionals and students alike, embracing these principles in every phase of design and construction is not just an obligation; it's an exciting opportunity. By committing to a holistic approach that harmonizes these pillars, architects can lead the charge in creating built environments that are not only functional and visually stunning but also fair, resilient, and sustainable for generations yet to come. Let's shape a better future together!

Joey Castaneda

Sustainable Architect

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

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Recommended references for your further studies:

• World Commission on Environment and Development (1987). Our Common Future (The Brundtland Report).

• The Bullitt Center. (https://bullittcenter.org/)

• Maggie's Centres. (https://www.maggies.org/)

• Bioregional & BedZED. (https://www.bioregional.com/bedzed)

• United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. (https://sdgs.un.org/goals)

Photo Attributions:

Venn Diagram of the 3 Sustainability Pillars: Andrew, Sunray, based on "File:Sustainable development.svg" by Johann Dréo, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Maggie’s Centre: David Hawgood / Maggie's Centre London at Charing Cross Hospital

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Maggie%27s_Centre,_Charing_Cross,_London.jpg

Maggie’s Centre: David Hawgood / Roof garden of Maggie's Centre London

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Roof_garden_of_Maggie%27s_Centre_London.jpg

BedZED: Tom Chance, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:BedZED_2007.jpg

THE SCALES OF SUSTAINABLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

 

Vauban, Freiburg, GERMANY

There are lots of factors that should be considered in applying the principles of sustainability in the architectural design of a building or a complex development. One of the fundamental factors is that of the scales involved in a sustainable built environment. Without understanding such scales and their impact and interaction with each other, it would be very difficult for us, sustainable architects and designers, to proceed with the proper design of a green building.

OBJECTIVE

For an easy understanding of the audience I am trying to reach out to from all walks of life, such as students, professionals, to homeowners/clients alike, I have compiled information I personally gathered from my work experiences, training, and extensive research. The Sustainable Architecture Certification course I have attended provided just three basic scales (building, site, and region), but I kind of diversified and tried to expand it into five instead, which I believe would help my readers in the proper understanding of the details needed in this subject.

To start it up, the basic scales of the sustainable built environment are the following:

1. Building;

2. Site;

3. Neighborhood;

4. City; and

5. Region

FIGURE 1 -A simple diagram of the basic scales of the sustainable built environment

All of these are deeply interconnected. Decisions made at one scale inevitably influence the others, and sustainable strategies are most effective when they are aligned and integrated across scales. Here’s how they interact:

1. Building Scale

The scope involved in this particular scale includes materials, energy systems, water use, and indoor environment quality. This is how they impact the other scales:

• A building's energy efficiency affects citywide energy demand – utilizing renewable energy systems such as solar panels and energy-efficient household appliances may help the city to cope and avoid a shortage of energy supply;

• Green roofs or rainwater harvesting system reduces stormwater loads at the site and neighborhood scale. To learn more, please see one of my blogs regarding a complete guide for a rainwater harvesting system. Link as follows: https://architalktural.blogspot.com/2025/02/rainwater-harvesting-system-complete.html

• Material choices affect regional supply chains and waste systems – this is the reason why most of the well-known sustainable architects, such as Hassan Fathy, who uses locally sourced building materials; Le Corbusier, who uses panels; both of whom use less to no energy on transportation.

2. Site Scale

In this scale, the scope includes landscape, topography, drainage, microclimate, transportation access, etc. I have recently been involved in the site analysis of a farmland in the southern part of Luzon, Philippines, and I believe I could use this as a good example.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided below is covered by the laws governing the fair use policy in general. I prefer not to disclose the name of the project, its location, and the stakeholders’ personal information to protect privacy. The excerpts are for educational purposes only to supplement the blog and are not intended as professional advice.

Our findings during our ocular site inspection are stated in an excerpt of the submitted Site Analysis Report as follows:

Purpose of Inspection
General Site Conditions
Observations and Findings

The purpose of this ocular site inspection is to assess the condition of the property’s site condition such as the accessibility, physical locations of existing vegetation, structures, actual ground terrain, hills, plain and slanting grounds, bodies of water, etc.; verification of coordinates to create satellite photo analysis; all of which to help the planning team find appropriate locations for each facilities and create a functional site development plan. The inspection was also conducted in order to identify any areas requiring immediate attention or remediation and determine appropriate project scheduling.

Accessibility: The Site is currently accessible from the road with no major obstacles or restrictions.

Surrounding Environment: The Surrounding neighborhood seems to be manageable.

Earthwork: Even though the lot area is multi-level with sloping terrains and some hilly areas, the area is generally plain with very minimal to no requirement for slope protection. The high altitude of the location is assessed to be risk-free from other hazards such as flooding, sea level rise, erosion, landslide,  or liquefaction.

Utilities: The presence of the existing structures along the road provides assurance that electricity, water supply, and plumbing items are available in the area.

Safety Hazards: Currently, no potential safety issues have been identified.

Security Hazards: The property requires proper fencing with a gate prior to or during the construction stage.

Code Violations: Compliance with local regulations or building codes is yet to be determined.

Environmental Concerns: No environmental issues yet, such as water drainage, waste disposal, environmental contamination, etc. However, since animal farming is the main activity to be conducted, the planning team will determine these issues during the planning stage.

Overall, the site is in stable condition, with a few minor issues requiring attention in the short term, such as immediate construction of fencing and a gate, together with some scattered minor site clearing. This has to be done while the planning team is working on the technical matters of the project. Currently, no major structural or safety concerns have been identified yet, but it is recommended that the above suggestions be made to ensure the site remains functional and favorable while the planning stage is being conducted.

Other site scales’ Interaction with other scales of the sustainable built environment:

• Site design (like permeable surfaces) contributes to neighborhood flood resilience.

• Solar orientation and landscaping can boost building performance.

• Transportation links - tie into citywide mobility networks.

3. Neighborhood Scale

The scope at this scale includes land use, population density, mobility, shared infrastructure, social connectivity, etc. With regards to land use, there are certain laws that govern this subject in the Philippines. You can check this out in one of my blogs entitled “List of Laws Essential to the Practice of Architecture in the Philippines”. Here is the link: https://architalktural.blogspot.com/2024/02/list-of-laws-essential-to-practice-of.html. Other factors could be determined through research or ocular inspections.

Here is some additional information from the Sustainable Architecture course I attended online through Alison. The following advantages of the sustainable neighborhood are enumerated:

1. Design on a human scale;

2. Provide choices;

3. Encourage mixed-use development;

4. Vary transportation options;

5. Build vibrant spaces;

6. Create identity, and

7. Conserve landscapes.

Other site scales’ Interaction with other scales of the sustainable built environment:

• Walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods reduce regional car dependency.

• Shared energy or waste systems benefit building sustainability.

• Local green spaces - support site and building health outcomes.

4. City Scale

The scope at this scale includes infrastructure systems (energy, transport, waste), zoning, housing policy, and economic planning. Such information can be obtained by visiting the city’s main office or city hall. Usually, the building official’s office has everything you will need while conducting planning for your projects.

Other site scales’ interaction and impact with other scales of the sustainable built environment:

• Urban policy drives neighborhood design standards and building codes.

• Citywide transit investments - impact site selection and building accessibility.

• Data from buildings (smart meters, sensors) can inform city energy policy.

5. Regional Scale

The largest scale is the regional scale, which includes watersheds, ecosystems, climate zones, transportation corridors,and  resource management. From the Sustainable Architecture course I attended, the following similar scope items are enumerated as follows:

1. Climatic conditions;

2. Topography/terrain;

3. Vegetation;

4. Water Resources;

5. Land as a resource; and

6. Connectivity

Such information, required whenever planning is conducted for building or complex projects, can be obtained from regional offices or some city halls. However, if available, some of these can be obtained online through the region’s website.

• Interaction:

• Regional climate dictates building design strategies (e.g., passive cooling).

• Watershed protection policies influence site drainage and neighborhood planning.

• Regional transit affects city form and neighborhood structure.

 

The Edge, Amsterdam

Bullitt Center, Seattle

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Sustainable architecture is a subset of sustainable development. Architecture is a social and economic exercise that leads to environmental impact and, in turn, is affected by it, and so it has to respond to all these in a balanced manner. The primary principle is to understand the sustainable built environment as a system that comprises various scales. Therefore, all sustainable architects must learn these scales and their impacts first before proceeding with the planning and design of green buildings.

JOEY CASTANEDA

Sustainable Architect

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

Photos and diagram attribution:

The Edge, Amsterdam (MrAronymous, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons)

Bullitt Center, Seattle (Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons)

Vauban, Freiburg (Andreas Schwarzkopf, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons)

Figure 1 - uploaded by Bernhard Pucher on Researchgate website (https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Three-scales-of-NBS-implementation-in-the-built-environment-green-building-materials_fig1_337737446)

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EDUCATIONAL TRIP ON SUSTAINABILITY

 

Lake Okutama, Ogouchi Dam

The waters of Lake Okutama are as deep blue as the eye can perceive. The lake, which is surrounded by mountains and is lovely throughout the seasons, is a well-liked and favorite destination in Tokyo.

Okutama Lake, also known as the Ogouchi Reservoir, is a significant freshwater source for Tokyo and one of the town's main attractions. The Ogouchi Dam blocks the natural flow of the Tama River, a historically significant water source for Tokyo, resulting in a sizable lake that divides into numerous valleys farther upstream.

The Kosuge River, which originates in Yamanashi Prefecture, supplies water to the lake from the southwest while the Tama River supplies water from the west. Yamanashi Prefecture is responsible for the branches of the lake and the mouth of the Kosuge River that empties into it.

Tokyo's needs are met by an underground pipe system that draws water from the lake. Hydroelectricity is generated in a power plant at the foot of the Ogouchi Dam using the water power of the Tama River, which empties the lake.

NOTE: This trip although featured in this blog article today is a late posting. The tour was done during the winter season in 2020 when I am still staying in Japan. Currently, I am staying in the Philippines practicing Architecture as freelance consultant. 

GETTING THERE

By train & Bus

Take a JR Chuo Line or Ome Line train to Ome Station from central Tokyo and switch to the Ome Line there. The line that travels to Okutama Station is that one.

Take a Nishi Tokyo Bus to Okutama Lake from Bus Stop 2 in front of Okutama Station. Numerous buses go around Okutama Lake's shoreline along Highway 411, stopping frequently at the most attractive locations such as the Nonkia Restaurant and Ogouchi Shrine.

SUICA/PASMO cards are accepted on Nishi Tokyo buses.

By Car

When coming from Tokyo, take Ome Town's Highway 411, pass through Okutama Town, and then continue on to the lake. The Onouchi Dam, which designates the eastern end of the reservoir, is where you first arrive. The road to the dam ascends the mountains in a series of twists while following the Tama River Valley. The spectacular dam is visible from some of the road's curves in the distance.

There is a sizable parking lot next to the dam.

SIGHTSEEING

Walking over the dam, which is available to the public, provides fantastic views of the lake and the mountains that surround it. A power plant that converts the Tama River's water power into electricity can be seen when looking down the steep concrete wall of the dam's "backside," which controls the river's onward flow towards Tokyo.

Okutama Mizu-to-Midori-no-Fureaikan (Okutama Water and Green Museum)

THE MUSEUM

Another exciting part of the tour is the Okutama Mizu-to-Midori-no-Fureaikan (Okutama Water and Green Museum), a small museum located immediately next to the dam entrance and devoted to the local contribution to the provision of water for Tokyo. The open-to-the-public museum exhibits local history, the dam's history, the lake's water sources, and general knowledge of the value of clean, fresh water supplies to the Tokyo Metropolitan Area. Visitors can learn about sustainability and eco-friendly topics in their mini-theater shows and exhibits.

Opening times: daily from 9.30am to 5pm. Closed on Wednesday. If Wednesday is a public holiday, the museum closes the following day.

Admission is free.

The Katakuri no Hana Restaurant is located on the museum's top floor, where its windows provide stunning views over the reservoir.

Here are more pictures of the museum showing some historical artifacts and scientific exhibits:

A BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Beginning in 1932, work on the Ogouchi Dam was initiated. Work on new development had to come to a halt during World War II and the years that followed. Finally finished in 1957, the dam has been in use ever since.

OUR TRIP 

We had several trips to Okutama Lake while still in Japan, making it one of our favorites. We usually go there on a regular family outdoor adventure, but sometimes, we entertain our local guests and overseas visitors. Perhaps one of the reasons is the accessibility of the place and that it’s near where we used to stay.

The photos were taken during our trip in January of 2020, which is still winter, although it’s best to go there during seasons when the color of trees changes: pink Sakura flowers in Spring and orange Maple leaves in Fall. Summer is also a good choice; nevertheless, our winter trip was fun because it was our first time going there in the middle of a cold season. The trees are quite bald, exposing the snow from beneath, creating an alpine view of the mountains.

We just had a small walk around the lake and a quick picnic in one of the shaded areas around the place. The best part is the bonding time with people closest to your heart. There is nothing that can replace such warm moments in a cold season.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. . .

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For a hassle-free experience and reasonable price, send us a message, and we will be happy to assist you! Check out our tours! Jetset Japan Tour!

#travelblog #travel #okutamalake #okutama #tokyo #japan #japantravel 

RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM, a complete guide

What is a Rainwater Harvesting System (RHS)?

A rainwater harvesting system is the process or technology that enables houses and buildings to A gather and store rainwater for occupants’ domestic use. Good example ranges from simple rain barrels to more complex constructions with pumps, tanks, and purifying systems to produce potable water.

General Purpose of Harvesting Rainwater

DOMESTIC USE 

In addition to rainwater being able to be purified for human consumption, the non-potable water can be utilized for car washes, laundry, toilet flushing, and landscape irrigation. 

HELPING THE COMMUNITY

Due to water shortage becoming a major issue in many densely populated locations, rainwater harvesting systems can provide homes and businesses with water during dry seasons, thereby reducing the demand on the municipal level. 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Rainwater harvesting is an important component of sustainable development as a whole. Encouraging the wise use of water resources and minimizing the environmental impact of human activity, it is consistent with the ideas of sustainable living. 

USES OF HARVESTED NON-POTABLE RAINWATER

Looking Back: A Brief History

The construction and use of cisterns to store rainwater can be traced back to the Neolithic Age, when waterproof lime plaster cisterns were built in the floors of houses in village locations of the Levant, a large area in Southwest Asia, south of the Taurus Mountains, bounded by the Mediterranean Sea in the west, the Arabian Desert in the south, and Mesopotamia in the east.

Many ancient cisterns have been discovered in some parts of Jerusalem and throughout what is today Israel/Palestine. people dug and carved out cisterns out of solid rock during the dry summer months to contain large amounts of water from the rainfalls. Cisterns were domestic gathering places and centers of life in the Near East, and sometimes the object of strife.

ANCIENT CISTERN RUINS FOUND IN PALESTINE

Importance and Benefits of RHS

1. One comparatively clean and cost-free source of water is rainfall.
2. Your water supply is completely under your control, which is great for cities with water restrictions.
3. The system is environmentally compliant and socially acceptable.
4. It encourages sustainability and aids with water conservation.
5. Rainwater is more preferable than chlorinated water for gardens and landscape plants.
6. Stormwater discharge from residences and businesses is decreased.
7. It can give you free water and resolve any drainage issues on your home.
8. Straightforward, low-cost, and easily maintained technologies are used.
9. It can serve as both a primary and a backup supply of water for municipal water systems and wells.
10. The technology is simply installed during the construction of new homes or retrofitted into an existing building.
11. Systems are very adaptable and can be modular, enabling relocation, reconfiguration, and enlargement when needed.
12. It can offer a reliable backup supply of water in an emergency.

Basic Components of RHS and How it Works

Types of RHS in terms of Collection Methods

BARREL TYPE

This is the most often used approach, and it is well known to most people. To collect rainwater, this entails putting a barrel at a gutter downspout. The actual barrel could be a brand-new, commercially manufactured rain barrel or one that has been repurposed. Rainwater collected can usually be transferred by the scooping method or by installing a faucet at the bottom.

Pros:

Anyone can easily do this at home.

You can easily find barrels in your neighborhood or online at a number of different retailers.

Barrels can be used in any setting because they don't take up much room.

Cons:

Usually, capacity ranges from 50 to 100 gallons.

Overflows readily and squanders gathering possibilities

In case you decide to go for the barrel-type RWHS, you might want to try this accessories and fittings kit.

DRY SYSTEM

This setup is similar to a rain barrel setup, but it requires more storage space. Since the collection line empties straight into the top of the tank, it essentially "dries" after every rain event.

Pros:

able to hold a substantial volume of rainfall

Ideal for regions with sporadic rainfall and heavy storm activity

Can be implemented at a low cost

simpler system means easier upkeep

Cons:

The location of the storage tank must be next to your home.

WET SYSTEM

Using this method, you can link many downspouts from various gutters by burying the collection pipes. Rainwater will fill the subterranean pipes, rising through the vertical pipes and overflowing into the tank. Watertight connections must be made between the subsurface collection piping and downspouts. The tank inlet's elevation needs to be lower than the house's lowest gutter.

Pros:

The capacity to gather information from your whole collection surface

The capacity to gather from several drains and gutters

The tank may be situated distant from your residence.

Cons:

More costly to install because of subterranean plumbing

There must be a sufficient gap between the tank inlet and the gutters.

Modern Technology and Innovations

UV-RESISTANT STORAGE TANKS

In order to increase efficiency and broaden applicability, modern rainwater collection techniques include cutting-edge technology. Among them is the use of premium, UV-resistant storage tanks to guarantee long-term water storage and inhibit the formation of algae. The materials and designs of gutter and downspout systems have also changed, resulting in fewer obstructions and less upkeep needed. 

UV STERILIZATION AND FILTER SOLUTIONS

The use of collected rainwater for drinking has become possible due to significant advancements in water filtration technologies. To guarantee the safety and quality of the water in your rainwater collection system, some suppliers offer UV sterilization and filter solutions that can be incorporated into your projects.

What law Regulates RHS in the Philippines?

The law that currently regulates rainwater harvesting systems in the Philippines is what is commonly known as THE PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE, issued June 2015, as A Referral Code of the NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, PD 1096, under Section 11.2. However, such provision covers only that of non-potable purposes. Potable water regulated by other government agencies will not be discussed.

Implementation and Execution

PLANNING AND DESIGN CONSIDERATION: Thorough planning is the first step, and it entails determining the capacity and requirement for rainwater gathering. This comprises figuring out the average rainfall, calculating the catchment area, which is typically the rooftop, and figuring out how much storage is needed depending on usage requirements. It's also critical to take the local weather and environment into account. Water safety and durability should be taken into consideration while choosing materials for the collection surface, gutters, and storage tanks. In keeping with the intended application, the design must also incorporate suitable filtration and purifying systems consulted with the experts.

INSTALLATION PROCESS: Installation comes next after the design. Firstly, determine the catchment area, which is typically the rooftop that usually exists. Installing or modifying gutters and downspouts is necessary to properly direct water into the storage system. To stop leaks and blockages, care must be given to make sure these parts are properly aligned and fastened. The location of the storage tank, which may be above or below ground, should take safety, maintenance, and user accessibility into account.

MAINTENANCE: RHS are known for requiring little upkeep, so with little

effort, you can still contribute to the long-term success of your installed system. This entails clearing the debris from the catchment area and gutters and inspecting the prefiltration, which may taint the water or create obstructions. It is important to routinely check the storage tanks for leaks, fractures, or the growth of algae. Regular inspections are also necessary to maintain the efficiency of filtration and purification systems.

Application

It is important that we be aware of our responsibility to the environment that we live in. One of the best ways to do this is through water conservation that can be practiced by applying the system of Rainwater Harvesting, not only in our own residences, but also in our farms and livestock. In this way, we can create a sustainable, self-sufficient living, as we revive on Earth. 

We have prepared a quick study to include affordable materials, sizes, and prices, handy for our reference. It would be much cheaper to use DIY methods rather than purchase sophisticated RHS components.

Final Thoughts

Water is a naturally occurring resource that is virtually free. Global population growth is driving rising demand for treated water. A balanced supply and demand for water may be maintained by using it responsibly. The most common and environmentally friendly method is to use a Rainwater Harvesting System in both residential and commercial structures for both potable and nonpotable uses. This could lead to a more ecologically responsible way of life by reducing the strain on the processed supply water. On a smaller scale, all these processes and technologies are always applicable here in the Philippines. It should begin in us.

Therefore, once we have completed a project like this, let us share our experiences to promote awareness on the subject of Rainwater Harvesting Systems. Our goal is to reach out to the world and show that we care.

CITATIONS AND PHOTO SOURCES:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainwater_harvesting

https://www.britannica.com/technology/rainwater-harvesting-system

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/pgbc

https://pinoybuilders.ph/rainwater-harvesting/

https://rainwatermanagement.com/blogs/news/rainwater-harvesting

https://www.watercache.com/education/rainwater-harvesting-101

https://bible-history.com/biblestudy/ancient-cisterns#google_vignette

https://jewishaction.com/content/uploads/springs.jpg

https://yogishenna.com/gutter-price-list/

https://jomprice.ph/pvc-pipe-price-list/

JOEY CASTANEDA

Architect

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

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