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Investigating rainwater harvesting system efficiency in Taiwan: A study on constructing precipitation variation indicators and assessing climate change impact

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  • Ming‐Cheng Liao
  • Wen‐Pei Sung
  • Yun Li

Abstract

The global water scarcity crisis demands innovative solutions, and rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS) offer a promising alternative. Focused on Taiwan's abundant rainfall, this study explores RWHS efficiency amidst changing precipitation patterns due to global climate change. Analyzing data from 1981 to 2020 across 20 stations, it scrutinizes variations in precipitation quantities, frequencies, seasonality indices, and dry period durations. Through rigorous analysis and simulation, it assesses RWHS operation efficiency metrics like potable water substitution and reliability. Utilizing principal component analysis, the study develops precipitation variation indicators to forecast RWHS efficiency, revealing significant variations in seasonality index and precipitation frequency. Despite declining long‐term efficiency, the study finds relatively modest variations in water‐savings percentage, suggesting avenues for mitigation. With a notable 78.04% explained variance, the study's credibility is reinforced, supported by high coefficients of determination (R2) for predicted water‐savings percentage (0.91) and reliability (0.90). Additionally, the study highlights factors impacting RWHS efficiency, advocating tailored approaches considering local precipitation patterns, building types, and population density. By optimizing RWHS design to diverse settings, effective water resource management and sustainability goals can be achieved. This research serves as a valuable guide in navigating RWHS implementation amidst a changing climate landscape.

Suggested Citation

  • Ming‐Cheng Liao & Wen‐Pei Sung & Yun Li, 2026. "Investigating rainwater harvesting system efficiency in Taiwan: A study on constructing precipitation variation indicators and assessing climate change impact," Natural Resources Forum, Blackwell Publishing, vol. 50(1), pages 634-658, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:natres:v:50:y:2026:i:1:p:634-658
    DOI: 10.1111/1477-8947.12585
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Geraldi, Matheus Soares & Ghisi, Enedir, 2017. "Influence of the length of rainfall time series on rainwater harvesting systems: A case study in Berlin," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 125(C), pages 169-180.
    2. Moniruzzaman, Muhammad & Imteaz, Monzur A., 2017. "Generalized equations, climatic and spatial variabilities of potential rainwater savings: A case study for Sydney," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 125(C), pages 139-156.
    3. Xueer Jing & Shouhong Zhang & Jianjun Zhang & Yujie Wang & Yunqi Wang & Tongjia Yue, 2018. "Analysis and Modelling of Stormwater Volume Control Performance of Rainwater Harvesting Systems in Four Climatic Zones of China," Water Resources Management: An International Journal, Published for the European Water Resources Association (EWRA), Springer;European Water Resources Association (EWRA), vol. 32(8), pages 2649-2664, June.
    4. Sokolow, S. & Godwin, H. & Cole, B.L., 2016. "Impacts of urban water conservation strategies on energy, greenhouse gas emissions, and health: Southern California as a case study," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 106(5), pages 941-948.
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