In the context of climate change, freshwater scarcity and water pollution are becoming increasingly severe. The Mekong Delta – where Nam Can Tho University (NCTU) is located – frequently faces saltwater intrusion and drought. Therefore, finding solutions to conserve, reuse, and protect water resources is an urgent task. With a sustainable development vision, NCTU has implemented a rainwater/wastewater reuse system, not only to conserve resources but also to educate students about green living awareness and community partnership.
I. Diagram and process of the rainwater/wastewater reuse system
Figure 1.1. Overview diagram of the rainwater/wastewater reuse system at Nam Can Tho University
The diagram illustrates the complete closed-loop process, from collecting rainwater on rooftops, channeling it through gutters and pipes, directing it to storage tanks, undergoing preliminary filtration, and then distributing it to usage points such as courtyard sanitation, ecological irrigation systems, and fire protection and prevention. This design is both scientific and environmentally friendly.
Technical process and infrastructure
The rainwater reuse process is divided into several straightforward steps. First is the collection phase, where rooftops are equipped with specialized collection gutters and drainage pipes. These gutters are responsible for catching all rainwater runoff, then directing it into the pipe system for transport to central storage tanks.
Figure 1.2. Rooftops and rainwater collection gutters – the important starting point of the system
After collection, rainwater enters large storage tanks designed either underground or above ground. The tanks have sufficient capacity to store thousands of cubic meters of water, ensuring a continuous supply during the dry season. Before entering the tanks, rainwater undergoes coarse filtration to remove leaves, debris, and elemental impurities.
Figure 1.3. Large-capacity rainwater storage tanks, ensuring adequate reserves for regular service
II. Practical implementation of the rainwater/wastewater reuse system model for students and the community at NCTU
II.1. Practical applications
The recycled rainwater source does not just exist on diagrams but has become an essential part of daily life at NCTU. The water is used for washing courtyards and cleaning corridors, contributing to maintaining a clean and beautiful landscape. Simultaneously, the ecological irrigation system helps keep gardens and lawns green and fresh, even during dry seasons. Notably, rainwater is also reserved in fire protection and prevention tanks, ensuring readiness for emergency response in case of fire incidents.
Figure 2.1. Cleaning staff using recycled rainwater to wash the courtyards within the campus
Figure 2.2. Automatic irrigation system nurturing ecological gardens with recycled rainwater & Recycled rainwater connected to reserve tanks for fire protection and prevention
II.1. System benefits
The implementation of the rainwater reuse system at NCTU brings numerous significant benefits:
- Economic: saves annual tap water costs, estimated at hundreds of millions of
- Environmental: reduces groundwater exploitation, decreases discharge, limits
- Educational: serves as a practical model for students to research, practice, and apply
- Social: spreads the message of green living and environmental
II.2. Educational and humanitarian significance
Not limited to material benefits, this project also carries profound humanitarian value. Students learn to conserve resources and respect nature, thereby forming habits and responsibilities toward the community. This model is also a strong message affirming NCTU’s commitment to partnering with sustainable development.
II.3. Development orientation
In the future, the university will continue to expand the application scope of the rainwater reuse system throughout the entire campus. NCTU also plans to integrate it with renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to create a synchronized, efficient, and environmentally friendly system. Additionally, the university will establish an experiential area for students to directly participate in research and system operation.
II.4. Conclusion
The rainwater/wastewater reuse system at NCTU is clear evidence of the combination of science, education, and social responsibility. The project both saves costs and raises awareness of environmental protection, contributing to training a generation of students who live responsibly with the community. Each drop of rainwater utilized today is the foundation for a green and sustainable future tomorrow.
