Water saving and economic analysis of the use of rainwater and reuse of grey water in buildings: estimation in a town of the Mallorcan Levante (Spain)
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Abstract
The Balearic Islands are characterized by large fluctuations in precipitation between winter and summer. The increase in demand by the tourism sector at the time of least recharge causes pressure on the natural water resource. In this context, it is important to establish alternatives that reduce extraction in aquifers, favouring the sustainability of the urban water cycle. Therefore, the objective of the research is to determine the water savings involved in the reuse, for non-drinking water uses, of rainwater and recycled grey water in the buildings of Son Servera (Spain). To do this, initially a geospatial analysis has been carried out and the methodology of the UNE-EN 16941-1 and 2 standards has been applied. Secondly, the economic profitability of these systems has been assessed. The results confirm different reductions in drinking water extraction depending on the use and type of building. Likewise, the single-family houses evaluated do not produce the payback on the investment, unlike in the multi-family houses and hotels. When the municipality has a supply of desalinated water, this strategy would reduce its production, particularly, in those periods of groundwater scarcity.