-
Using every last drop: rainwater harvesting and utilization in Gansu Province, China
01.04.2014
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has been widely practised in China for centuries. The modernization and rapid spread of RWH and accompanied low-cost greenhouse and low rate irrigation (LORI) techniques since the late 1980s has helped to address water shortages and lift millions of families out of poverty in semi-arid provinces such as Gansu. The construction of terraces, contour bunds and micro-catchments has also contributed significantly to soil and water conservation, revegetation and ecological restoration of previously degraded land. This article provides an update on developments relating to a major RWH programme in Gansu Province, China, and follows three previous contributions published by the authors in Waterlines in 1995, 2000, and 2006. It also provides an overview of the book Every Last Drop: Rainwater Harvesting and Sustainable Technologies in Rural China, published by Practical Action in 2012 -
-
Books
01.07.2008
-
Reviews and Resources
01.04.2008
-
Rainwater harvesting: its time has come
01.04.2006
This technology, which Waterlines first covered in its first issue in 1982, is now an international prize winner. But why hasn't it taken off in Africa with the success it has in Asia? -
Rainwater harvesting
01.04.2006
This list of resources on rainwater harvesting provides a good foundation for readers who are interested to learn more on the topic. -
Rainwater catchment systems: reflections and prospects
01.01.2000
Rainwater harvesting, one of the world’s most important ancient water supply techniques, is beginning to enjoy a resurgence in popularity. Could this ancient technique be part of the solution for the next century’s increasing water supply shortages? -
-
Catching up — upgrading Botswana's rainwater catchment systems
01.01.1997
The word 'upgrade' might not conjure up images of radical change – but the most effective designs often result from applying innovative ideas and approaches to age-old systems. This is happening in Botswana, where the proof can be seen in rainwater catchment replication in homes, farms and schools. -
Always the bridesmaid? Rainwater catchment systems in the spotlight
01.10.1995
If rainwater utilization is so easy, cheap, and sustainable, why does the engineering establishment choose to promote other options? John Gould puts us in context, and explores the special significance of catchment systems for the twenty-first century.