This book expands the body of scientific knowledge on research and solutions for alternative water systems. It addresses a wide variety of water management issues in buildings, ranging from the technical possibilities, hydraulic and financial efficiency, and public acceptance of decentralized water systems, to their impact on sewage systems. Climate changes, population growth, and progressive urbanization are the main causes of the growing interest in alternative sources of water around the world. Decentralized systems are seen not only as solutions that can effectively save water, but also as systems that can operate partially or completely independently of centralized suppliers. With these aspects in mind, the main focus of this book is on showcasing a new approach to water management at the building scale. The findings and insights presented here will support the development of future technical guidelines for using alternative water systems in urban areas - an aspect that is particularly important since, in many European countries, these systems are only very rarely used.

This book expands the body of scientific knowledge on research and solutions for alternative water systems. It addresses a wide variety of water management issues in buildings, ranging from the technical possibilities, hydraulic and financial efficiency, and public acceptance of decentralized water systems, to their impact on sewage systems. Climate changes, population growth, and progressive urbanization are the main causes of the growing interest in alternative sources of water around the world. Decentralized systems are seen not only as solutions that can effectively save water, but also as systems that can operate partially or completely independently of centralized suppliers. With these aspects in mind, the main focus of this book is on showcasing a new approach to water management at the building scale. The findings and insights presented here will support the development of future technical guidelines for using alternative water systems in urban areas - an aspect that is particularly important since, in many European countries, these systems are only very rarely used.

The book presents a comprehensive study of the percolation of water from surface runoff with a focus on the retention capacity and intensity of precipitation. Discussing the state of the art in scientific knowledge and solutions for the infiltration of water from surface runoff, the book addresses a wide variety of rainwater management issues, from precipitation, surface runoff and water infiltration, to impact on the drainage system. Although modern urban hydrology has improved the management of rainwater runoff for flood protection, public health, and environmental protection, current methods of drainage in urban areas mean that there is a continued threat to the regime of water flow and water resources. In this context, the book presents a new approach to rainwater management based on a unique fusion of hydrology, hydrogeology, urban engineering, and water management. It also includes research findings that are helpful in developing recommendations and technical guidelines for the use of infiltration systems in urban areas.