Integrating New Practices for Rainwater Management in Buildings: Turning It Into a Resource Both in Terms of Functionality and Hydro Efficiency

Abstract

Respect for life and nature passes through a fundamental and indispensable source: water. For thousands of years, rainwater has been recycled using it for personal and environmental needs. Rainwater (also known as "blue gold") is a sufficient asset that nature has provided us with. Every day more rainwater harvesting becomes even more necessary. During 28 years of democracy in Albania, even the city of Durrës has been subject of massive social economic changes. Because of its characteristics, offering economic and social opportunities, after 1990, it has become one of the most attractive cities for massive population migration from rural areas. This has led to an urbanization process with the doubling of the population and as a result the design of low performance buildings in terms of hydropower consumption and environmental impact. The time when rainwater was treated as "waste" transported through underground sewers, without using it, is gone. In Durrës City, as a touristic city in the summer season, with growing number of tourists in the recent years, the water supply of the area has become quite problematic. It is necessary for families to effectively manage the heavy rainwaters during winter. Approximately five million liters of rainfall every year in Durrës, that evaporate and go to the sea. This study seeks to integrate new practices in rainwaters management, planning and design by demonstrating how we can turn this natural resource for sustainable development. The study adresses to an effective planning and management of rainwater inside and outside home, not only in buildings that will be designed in the future, but also in the existing ones.