What are some innovative water management techniques for commercial buildings?

1 Rainwater harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops, gutters, or other surfaces for reuse in non-potable applications, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, or cooling. Rainwater harvesting can reduce the demand for municipal water supply, lower stormwater runoff and pollution, and provide a backup source of water in case of drought or emergency. Rainwater harvesting systems typically consist of catchment areas, storage tanks, filters, pumps, and distribution pipes. Depending on the local climate, regulations, and building design, rainwater harvesting can provide a significant amount of water for commercial buildings.

2 Greywater recycling

Greywater recycling is the process of treating and reusing wastewater from sinks, showers, laundry, or dishwashers for non-potable purposes, such as irrigation, toilet flushing, or cooling. Greywater recycling can reduce the amount of freshwater needed for commercial buildings, as well as the volume of wastewater discharged to the sewer system. Greywater recycling systems usually involve some level of filtration, disinfection, and monitoring to ensure the quality and safety of the recycled water. Greywater recycling can also reduce the energy and chemical use associated with conventional water treatment and distribution.

3 Smart metering

Smart metering is the use of advanced technologies to measure and monitor water consumption and performance in real time. Smart metering can help facilities engineers identify and address water leaks, inefficiencies, or anomalies, as well as optimize water usage and demand patterns. Smart metering can also provide valuable data and feedback to building owners, managers, and occupants, enabling them to make informed decisions and behavioral changes to conserve water. Smart metering can be integrated with other building automation and management systems to enhance water efficiency and management.

4 Water-efficient fixtures and appliances

Water-efficient fixtures and appliances are those that use less water than standard models, without compromising functionality or performance. Water-efficient fixtures and appliances can include low-flow faucets, showerheads, toilets, urinals, dishwashers, and washing machines. Water-efficient fixtures and appliances can reduce water consumption and wastewater generation, as well as energy and maintenance costs. Water-efficient fixtures and appliances can also improve occupant satisfaction and comfort, as well as comply with water conservation codes and standards.

5 Green roofs and walls

Green roofs and walls are vegetated surfaces that cover part or all of a building's roof or facade. Green roofs and walls can provide multiple benefits for water management in commercial buildings, such as reducing stormwater runoff and peak flow, increasing evapotranspiration and cooling, filtering and retaining rainwater, and creating habitats for wildlife. Green roofs and walls can also improve the aesthetic and thermal performance of the building, as well as the health and well-being of the occupants. Green roofs and walls require careful design, installation, and maintenance to ensure their functionality and durability.

6 Water balance analysis

Water balance analysis is the method of accounting for all the water inputs and outputs of a commercial building, as well as the changes in water storage. Water balance analysis can help facilities engineers understand the water cycle and dynamics of the building, as well as identify the sources and uses of water, the potential for water savings, and the impacts of water management practices. Water balance analysis can also support water budgeting and planning, as well as performance evaluation and reporting. Water balance analysis can be performed using various tools and models, such as spreadsheets, software, or simulations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?