Rainwater harvesting, the collection of precipitation directly from the atmosphere, presents a potential source of potable water. This method involves capturing rainfall before it reaches the ground, typically from rooftops or other clean surfaces. Collected water can then be stored for later use, ranging from irrigation to drinking water after appropriate treatment.
The practice offers numerous advantages, including reducing reliance on municipal water supplies, conserving resources, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Historically, rainwater harvesting has been a vital water source in many regions, especially in areas with limited access to groundwater or surface water. Its sustainable nature makes it increasingly relevant in the face of growing water scarcity concerns.