Water is, in essence, practically free. However, this vital resource for existence is already in scarcity in most countries, primarily Australia, the world’s driest region.  As technology noticeably elevates our standards of living and populations grow, also arises the demand for more water, most particularly for household use.

Australia, being the driest continent on the planet, has already embraced the use of rainwater for daily consumption, especially in most rural areas. It has been common practice for quite some time now, not only for bathing, garden use or cleaning, but even for cooking and drinking. Rainwater, being a natural and costless resource tends to be preferred by many in comparison to reticulated waters distributed to household communities and as a result, the impetus behind collecting rainwater has increased through the years.

Technically, rain harvesting is done by simply accumulating rain water, and storing it for forthcoming usage. Most households’ utilise long-term storages to better store their rainwater. Additionally, there is a functional method in place to capture, store and dispense water safely. Commonly, roof gutters are utilised to direct water to storages.

Giving an answer to this demand, bigger storages like rainwater tanks are used to sustain rain harvesting. Not only economic and social benefits can be achieved but significant environmental benefits are added perks of interest. If only more people could be provided with the proper understanding and information, then an even greater engagement is certain to arise.

To inspire participation and to much better understand inevitability, let us enumerate and evaluate each advantage we can benefit from by collecting rainwater:

1. Collected rainwater can be used to water gardens, clean your car and garage, flush your toilets, and even take care of your laundry. In the long run, you will be released from mains water source dependency, most importantly during water usage restriction, in which the overall Australian government had already mandated in order to supplement the mains supply. In effect, it does not only solve your water problem, but also cuts on your water bill costs, thus helping you cut your expenses.
2. Saved rainwater does not only provide when supply is minimal, but also significantly prevents flood to low lying areas. And notably, prevents soil erosion, contamination of surface water and storm water.
3. Your harvested water contributes to making your floras and vegetation happier, as rainwater is an excellent source for water landscape because the water is free from chemicals like chloride treatment which can be contained within in the mains supply.
4. Harvesting rainwater is helping save the planet by effectively upholding water conservation and saving on energy as well.

On top of all that don’t forget that the Australian government has offered to deliver refunds to homeowners that adapt to rainwater tank usage. Regional administrators likewise have also commenced the further education of people about the recommendations and rules for a safer and better water usage system.