Something that is not really new, but may be new to you, is to collect rainwater for later use. People have been capturing and using rainwater for a long time, but today you can find systems that are more complex and useful than ever before.
Most people use barrels to gather rainwater, but you can buy all types of neat systems now that can save more water and also make things much easier once it has been set up.
The reason why you may want to consider looking into rainwater collection systems is because water is short in many areas of the world.
If you live where you are not getting enough rainfall, or if you are under drought conditions, you know that there are many things that you should not be doing, including watering your lawn, garden, washing your cars or even the exterior of your home.
These things are wasteful when there is a shortage of water for people, animals and farming needs. Rainwater can fix all that – when you get it. It can also help with overall water conservation even if things are fine in your area.
You can use the water you gather in rainwater collection systems to water your grass, garden and for any other use you may have.
It may not be the best for drinking unless you have a good and approved filtration system. However, these allow you to use water for things (even swimming pools) when you are otherwise forbidden due to drought conditions.
The rain can water your lawn, but if you can collect it, you can use it when a few days or even weeks have passed and your lawn is turning brown. Use it for whatever you wish as long as it is safe.
You can use barrels for rainwater collection if you wish. You can have them under your eaves and gutters so that they catch what would normally run away into the ground or even out into the street.
However, nowadays you can find more sophisticated units that have a bladder to which you would attach a hose that can be turned on and off.
These can be as big or as little as you wish. Get the size you can afford and what you have space for. Some are made to fit under porches and decks to stay out of sight.
Rainwater collection systems can be found in some home improvement or garden supply stores, or you can look online to see what you would like to have.
You can even try to find some that are made from recycled material if you are into being kind to your world and immediate environment.
These systems are not a steady source of water, but they can be a great way to store what falls from the sky for when you need it the most or saving water.
