Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK): Rainwater Harvesting Methods – A Review

Abstract

Over centuries, people in diverse geographical regions relied on rainwater and developed techniques to harvest it, creating a wealth of indigenous knowledge. This paper introduces both traditional eco-logical knowledge and indigenous knowledge and provides an overview of some traditional rainwa-ter harvesting (RWH) methods. These are divided into two categories: micro-catchment methods andmacro-catchment and floodwater methods. Bamboo drip irrigation and rice-fish farming in India are reviewed as case studies. In order to prevent and even reverse environmental degradation, it is important to develop holistic and sustainable strategies. For this, it is vital to learn from what local people already know and practice. There is an urgent need to identify and apply this knowledge for the planet’s benefit. These traditional RWH practices may be a little difficult to implement, but theycan provide water conservation solutions, especially in vulnerable regions.