What is one significant challenge of rainwater harvesting systems?

One significant challenge of rainwater harvesting systems is the requirement for proper filtration to prevent contamination. Rainwater can collect various pollutants from the surfaces it runs off, such as dust, leaves, bacteria, and other debris. Without an effective filtration system, these contaminants can make the harvested water unsafe for use in drinking or irrigation. Ensuring that the water is properly filtered and treated is crucial for maintaining water quality, which is a central concern in the design and operation of rainwater harvesting systems.

In addition to filtration, maintaining the integrity of the entire rainwater harvesting system is important to avoid microbial growth and other contamination risks. This challenge highlights the need for careful planning, monitoring, and maintenance to ensure that the system delivers safe, usable water to the community.