The application of nanotechnology to improve the quality of harvested rainwater in a selected rural community

Abstract

Water scarcity remains a global challenge, with millions of people lacking access to clean and safe drinking water. In many rural communities, there is a widespread belief that rainwater collected from rooftops is naturally pure and safe for consumption without treatment. This reliance on untreated rainwater raises concerns regarding water-related health risks, particularly in regions with limited access to water treatment infrastructure. The aim of this study was to explore the use of nanotechnology to enhance harvested rainwater quality in the rural Umkomaas community in South Africa (SA). The study adopted a mixed-methods research approach, collecting quantitative data through a structured questionnaire from 221 households that use rainwater harvesting systems, alongside qualitative insights from 16 interviews. Participants were selected through convenient sampling to gain a comprehensive understanding of the community's experiences and challenges regarding rainwater harvesting systems. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data, and thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. The results revealed roof harvesting was prevalent due to its simplicity, with plastic tanks commonly used for storing rainwater. The primary uses of harvested rainwater included household cleaning, cooking, and drinking. Participants reported frequent occurrences of illnesses such as abdominal pain and diarrhoea, linked to the consumption of contaminated or untreated rainwater. The contamination resulted from poor storage conditions, lack of filtration, and exposure to environmental pollutants. The study advocates for nanotechnology application as a viable solution to address contamination issues, proposing a dual nanofiltration system that incorporates filters at both storage container in- and outlets. This approach includes wood-based nanofiltration membranes due to their unique material properties, which make them particularly well-suited for water filtration applications. By integrating nanotechnology into rainwater harvesting systems, this study presents an approach for enhancing public health outcomes and demonstrates the potential for sustainable practices that align with the broader goals of water security and community resilience. The research implications extend beyond the rural Umkomaas community, offering valuable insights for similar communities facing water scarcity and quality challenges globally.