Although we are in the middle of the rainy season, we must not let our guard down. The drought that everyone was talking about a few weeks ago is still in force and there is nothing better than taking advantage of the water that falls from the sky to face it. Perhaps many do not know it, but rainwater is relatively clean and we can use it for many things.
During its condensation stage (when it turns into clouds), water undergoes a natural purification process. That is why, when it falls, rainwater is suitable even for drinking. Of course, this only applies to places where air pollution is not as high as in the city, but that doesn't mean that we capital citizens can't take advantage of the season's water.
Rainwater harvesting" system. Photo: Sedema.
Rainwater harvesting program
In order for people in municipalities such as Tlalpan, Tláhuac, Milpa Alta, Azcapotzalco, Gustavo A. Madero, Magdalena Contreras, Iztapalapa and Coyoacán to "harvest" rainwater in their homes, the Ministry of the Environment launched the Rainwater Harvesting program, which consists of installing rainwater harvesting systems in the homes of those interested in taking advantage of rainwater.
If you see one of these modules in your neighborhood, it is very likely that you can apply for the program. Photo: Sedema.
This is one of the alternatives that the government is proposing to deal with the shortage and basically it can be installed in any house. Perhaps the best part of this is that it is a free program, as long as the neighbors are willing to comply with the following requirements:
- Spend time learning about rainwater harvesting.
- Participate in community awareness and introductory talks on this type of system.
- Allow access to SEDEMA promoters and service facilitators during the technical visit and installation of the system.
- Submit a simple copy of the following documents:
- Application form and letter of commitment
- Proof of address
- Official identification
- CURP
- Property receipt, proof or technical opinion of land use
Those who want to know if their house has the conditions to install the system, should call the telephone number that corresponds to your city hall. You can consult the numbers here.
Rainwater harvesting at home
If your municipality is not among the participants in the Rain Harvest program, but you still want to take advantage of rainwater, at Local we have a simple method to do it on your rooftop, patio or terrace. With this system, the amount depends on the container you use, although we decided to do it in a bucket to avoid the problems caused by stagnant water.
What is needed
Photo: Diego Cera for Local.Mx
- 1 bucket or water collection jar (size is up to you)
- 1 thick cotton cloth covering the top of the bucket or jar
- 1 piece of mosquito netting or fine tulle
- Cord to tie the fabric
- Pipe tape or waterproof tape
How to make a homemade rain collector
Cover the bucket with the cotton cloth. We use diaper cloth because it is thick enough to allow the rainwater to pass through, leaving behind the dust and dirt residue it carries with it.
Photo: Diego Cera for Local.Mx
2. With the help of the cord, hold the fabric very well to the bucket. We suggest making as many turns as necessary, but without leaving the fabric too tight to better capture the water.
Photo: Diego Cera for Local.Mx
3. Place the mosquito netting or tulle on top of the fabric. This is the first filter for our catcher, there will stay the little garbage or bugs that drag the raindrops. If possible, it should be folded in several parts to create a much more effective barrier against debris.
Photo: Diego Cera for Local.Mx
4. As we did with the fabric, attach the mesh with another piece of ribbon.
Photo: Diego Cera for Local.Mx
5. Once the fabric and tulle are securely fastened to the bucket, use the tape to secure them well so that they do not slip in the rain when it rains.
Photo: Diego Cera for Local.Mx
To use your homemade rain catcher, ideally you should take it out on your roof, patio or terrace when you suspect it is going to start raining and put it in as soon as the rain stops. The idea is that you use that water as soon as possible to avoid the problems and diseases caused by standing water. Rainwater can be used for watering your houseplants, cleaning your floors, flushing the toilet or anything else that requires clean water.
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