The biggest subject for Sitio Joaninha, besides its people of course, is the question of water and its uses. It surely would be the best, if there would be no people at all in this area due to its proximity to the Billings reservoir but instead their are almost 900 souls who have a right to live a dignified life and who have a right to be helped to preserve their environment, which is often the only source for this dignity.

As there is a lot of rainfall throughout the year, rain will be the main source for drinking water and irrigation. If, during the first years of implantation of the new system, an unexpected water shortage during the months with little rainfall would take place, the shortage has to be compensated by water supply through lorry as it is practised today. The recovering of the existing near to surface wells will develop with the installation of the new sewage treatment methods and thus make shortages ever more unlikely. Just as the opening of deep level wells as soon as the groundwater tissues show to be suitable for consumption will decrease possible shortages. Once the wells are fully recovered, all the proposed water catchment devises can securely provide the village with sufficient water and make it independent from outside support.

Sewage systems, which might slightly differ at different locations have all in common, that they hold the water on site, separate the urine from the faeces and thus try to maximise the nutrient regain.

Recycling of grey and black water is due to the high levels of rainfall not necessary.

Nevertheless, water saving measures should be taught in the educational programs and be practised in the village. Besides the collection of rainwater in designated areas for drinking water purposes, rainwater should also be collected or retained individually wherever possible on roofs and in gardens. To keep systems simple, these waters can be used for irrigation and car washing and thus ease the load on the drinking water supply. The installation of water saving fittings and toilettes has to be propagated. They will on the one hand reduce the general water consumption, and on the other hand keep the sewage more concentrated and easier to handle.

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Please read:    Potable water