Faro schools are using rainwater harvesting as a way of reusing water and raising environmental awareness
The parish union of Faro has partnered with local school groups to introduce a rainwater harvesting system at primary schools.
The project aims to repurpose rainwater for irrigating school gardens while increasing environmental awareness among the school community about the growing importance of conserving water, particularly in the Algarve.
Each school is now equipped with a 2,000-litre reservoir, designed to collect rainwater from rooftops. Says the parish union in a press release, the system not only represents an “ecological and economical solution for efficient water use,” but it also provides a hands-on learning experience for students about sustainable resource management.
“This project represents an important step in our mission of building a more environmentally conscious community equipped to tackle future environmental challenges. We believe education is key to promoting sustainability, and we want to involve the younger generation early on,” said Bruno Lage, president of the parish union.
Recent rainfall effectively tested the system, Lage said, adding that the reservoirs were completely filled, proving its success. “Instead of being wasted, this water will now be used to water school gardens, offering a practical example of how natural resources can be better utilised,” he added.
The school gardens irrigated with harvested rainwater serve as “dynamic spaces for teaching environmental concepts and promoting ecological literacy,” the parish union says. Teachers, parents, and staff are also encouraged to participate, further expanding the scope of the project.
