This dates back to the Neolithic Age

However, there are still plenty of good ideas, practises and products that aren’t new, in fact many that have been around for thousands of years, that are still underused today and still able to positively impact the world. Which is exactly what this article focused on. The subject of which, is… rainwater harvesting. 

The construction and use of cisterns to store rainwater can be traced back to the Neolithic Age - about 12,000 years ago - when waterproof lime plaster cisterns were built in the floors of houses. Within just a few minutes online, researching the history of rainwater harvesting, you’ll be amazed just how common it is (or was) and the huge number of countries and buildings it has been used in.

You have to wonder, with a little disbelief given its history, why it’s not something that absolutely everyone in 2024 knows about and considers normal. It’s such a sensible, simple thing to do, yet it’s not commonplace at all. The good news is though, more people are asking about it. 

Yes, for whatever reason - and I’m sure there are many - lots more people have been making enquiries with us [at GRAF UK] about adding rainwater harvesting systems to their homes. We’ve also recently sold several systems to small developers, building multi-plot developments. Not since 2011 when the ‘Code for Sustainable Homes’ was around, have we received so many enquiries for small housing developments. 

It’s a great sign for the future, because the more properties that have rainwater harvesting systems in the future the more our future water shortage issues will impact us. It really is an area where you can take personal responsibility, to help lessen the effects of water shortages which are reported to happen in less than 20-25 years. 

It’s also a great business opportunity for all merchants, distributors and installers. If you’re selling anything to self-builders (as these are the majority of purchasers right now), then you’re missing out if you’re not offering them rainwater harvesting systems. They will have thought about it and a timely question from you could generate new enquiries and could definitely lead to sales. 

If you work in the construction industry and you’re currently looking for new business and new opportunities, consider the benefits of this age-old practise, and get yourself involved. More and more people will harvest rainwater over the coming 10-20 years, and they’re going to need people who specialise in it to help them.

Don’t worry about learning how to use AI to improve your business! Learn about the benefits of rainwater harvesting and lead the way to help others make the most of the free, precious resource that is rainwater. There’s plenty of it in the UK, but not much of it gets put to good use, and that’s a real shame. Could you help change that?