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Writer's pictureJRD

Is Rainwater Collection Worth It? Exploring the Environmental and Financial Benefits

Are you looking to make your home more sustainable but not sure where to start? Keen to get control of your energy bills but believe renewable technology is expensive? When people are asked about natural resources they often think of solar or wind but there is another valuable resource that often gets overlooked, rainwater!


🤔 Q. On average how many days does it rain in the UK per year?



... Have a number in mind?



☔️ A. The answer is 133 days a year!


But what happens when it stops? As our summers get hotter hose pipe bans are becoming the norm, and whilst utility bills are predicted to keep on rising, there is one thing you can do now to prepare for another hot summer.


Adding a water butt is a simple and cost-effective addition that you can fit yourself, and despite its size, can help reduce your water bill, help prevent flooding, and as summer months get hotter it can help keep your garden greener for longer which helps not only you but the wildlife that visits you! 


If you are thinking of fitting them on your house or even adding one to your shed, here are some of the many benefits of collecting rainwater;


1. Easy to set up: Collecting rainwater is relatively easy to set up and can be done with simple equipment such as a rain barrel or a cistern.


2. It conserves water resources: Collecting rainwater reduces reliance on municipal water supplies, which helps preserve freshwater and groundwater resources.


3. Cost-effective: Collecting rainwater can be a cost-effective way of reducing water bills, as it can be used for household or garden purposes such as watering plants, washing vehicles or flushing toilets.


4. Promotes sustainable living: Collecting rainwater promotes a sustainable lifestyle, which is important for protecting the environment and reducing the carbon footprint.


5. Encourages biodiversity: Collecting rainwater can help create wetlands and other ecosystems that support biodiversity, which is essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.


6. Reduces soil erosion: Rainwater is an important tool for preventing soil erosion, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. It helps to slow down the flow of water, providing a chance for it to seep into the soil and recharge groundwater, and also providing water for plants to grow.


7. Helps in flood control: Collecting rainwater on a large scale can help prevent flooding during heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of property damage and loss of life.


You do not need planning permission to fit a water butt, and as a cheap and easy way of starting to collect your own free resource, what are you waiting for! 






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