Literature Review And Analysis Of Rainwater Harvesting To Compile Best Practices For An Urban Integrated Water Cycle Management System At The City Of Calgary

Abstract

This paper investigates and reviews the challenges, benefits, risks, legal position and global perspectives related to rainwater harvesting to learn the best practices for urban water management. These best practices are put in the perspective of the circumstances faced by the City of Calgary regarding potable water, storm water and flood water management related to rain and snow fall. With the arrival of the Calgary City Charter, this document is a valuable source of information that will assist in the implementation of an integrated water cycle management system. Water resources considered comprise blue, green and grey water including rain water, snow melt, stormwater runoff, groundwater, surface water, reclaimed water, greywater, and wastewater as one. When all sources are accounted for and costs, resources and consumption factors are considered under one a single business unit, focused on sustainable water asset management, better decisions can be made.