definition
strict definition
rainwater recycling
A system collecting rainwater from a structure or its grounds and routing it for use within the building.
Rainwater recycling is a green feature used in some buildings to reduce water waste. System designs may vary, but typically collect rainwater from the roof, facade, or grounds of a structure and route it into internal distribution systems.
Recycled rainwater is typically used for watering plants, flushing toilets, or other non-potable water uses.
The collected water is reused rather than simply discharged. Irrigation, toilet flushing, and other non-potable uses are typical, while the collection and distribution arrangement can vary.
Related definitions
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bioreactor
Panels or containers holding a biologically active environment for energy production or carbon dioxide reduction. -
carbon neutrality
A building whose net carbon emissions from energy use are zero or less, with fossil-energy emissions offset by clean-energy surplus. -
double glazing
At least 80 percent of exterior-facing windows have two or more glass layers, including triple glazing. -
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A station where drivers can recharge the batteries of electricity-powered automobiles. -
green roof
An extensive area of live planting covering most of a building's roof plane as an environmental feature. -
green wall
A building or structure facade designed to accommodate substantial living plant growth. -
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A system which saves energy by using a counter-flow heat exchanger at the point of ventilation. -
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An automatic system which optimizes lighting usage throughout a building or structure. -
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Panels installed on or by a structure which harness solar power and convert it to electricity. -
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A system using solar radiation directly to heat water, usually with supplemental conventional water heating. -
sunshading
Projecting features in a facade which reduce the amount of sunlight entering windows. -
wind turbines
Energy-producing devices affixed to a structure or its grounds, which convert wind energy into power.