Attitude, Perception, Knowledge and End-Use of Roof-Top Harvested Rainwater in Aduwawa Community, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Igbinosa IH, Omokaro EV
DOI Info: N/A
ABSTRACT
Several communities in water-limited area rely on harvested rainwater due to the perception that it is fit to drink without prior treatment. This study aims to assess user’s perception and end-use of harvested rainwater as well as the microbiological quality of harvested rainwater in Aduwawa community, Benin City, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to investigate users’ perception and end-use of the harvested rainwater. Microbiological analysis was carried out using standard culture- based methods. About 28% of the rainwater harvesting system was situated in poor sanitary locations (close to a septic tank, refuse dump or pit latrine). The harvested rainwater was used for both potable and non-potable functions. Over 70% of respondents use the harvested rainwater for bathing and 40% for cooking. Also, 90% of the respondents use harvested rainwater as an alternative source of water. According to the respondents, about 82% attest that they do not notice any health-related illness as a result of using the harvested rainwater. Microbiological analysis of the rainwater revealed that the rainwater samples did not meet the WHO standard for drinking water. Harvested rainwater could serve as an alternate source of water for households for non-potable use. Rainwater should be treated before use for potable functions.
Affiliations: Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, PMB 1154, Benin City, Nigeria.
Keywords: Rainwater, Potable, Microbial Quality, WHO Standard, Public Health
Published date: 2020/12/30
