ASSESSMENT OF RAINWATER HARVESTING POTENTIAL AND UTILIZATION SCENARIOS AT THE CAMPUS SCALE: THE CASE OF DÜZCE UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This study aims to determine the rainwater harvesting (RWH) potential at the campus scale within the Düzce University Konuralp Campus. The amount of collectable rainwater was calculated based on the surface areas of rooftops, impervious grounds, and green spaces across the campus, using 2024 meteorological precipitation data and runoff coefficients corresponding to surface types. According to the results, the annual RWH potential is approximately 197,201 m3, of which 76% originates from rooftops, 23% from impervious surfaces, and 1% from green areas. It was found that the harvested rainwater could fully meet the irrigation, ornamental pond, and reservoir water demands within the campus. Additionally, this implementation could enable approximately 94,907 m3 of water savings, 151,851 kWh of energy savings, and a reduction of 199,998 kg in CO2 emissions annually. The study emphasizes that system design and management tailored to local climatic conditions are critical for the sustainable use of water resources. The findings demonstrate that RWH systems offer an effective environmental and economic solution for university campuses and similar institutional sites.