RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM IN SINGAPORE: CURRENT AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

Abstract

The aim of this research is to look into the feasibility of using rainwater harvesting systems in Singapore’s residential buildings by analyzing the potential benefits and cost effectiveness of implementing such a system in HDB flats.

Water is an essential element to human life. Given Singapore’s limited natural resources and constant population growth (i.e. from approximately 3 million in 1990 to approximately 5 million in 2011, almost twice the amount than that in1990s), there is a rising demand for water that the current amount of fresh water is unable to meet. As a short-term solution, we import water from our neighboring country Malaysia. However, our dependence on the trade would post a vulnerability to us as we face risk of them cutting our water supply. Therefore, it is important that we find ways to conserve and manage our water supply wisely.

In this research, the viability of rainwater harvesting as a source of water conservation will be carefully examined through case studies of this new technology. After an analysis of the case studies, rainfall data will then be computed to determine the amount of non-portable water used in the premises and the cost benefits of implementing the rainwater harvesting system.

After analyzing, the results show that in terms of environmental aspects, it is plausible and feasible to install this system in residential buildings based on its significant water savings. However, the main factor that affects the implementation according to the developers is the high installation cost and high payback period. Nonetheless, high efficiency items used to install the Rainwater Harvesting System may be produced at affordable prices to help reduce the installation cost in the future as technologies are ever improving and innovating.