Sustainable development: Rainwater harvesting in Nový Bydžov

Date: 28.11.2024
By: MAURICE
In the face of climate change, Nový Bydžov is introducing innovative solutions to reduce rainwater run-off from urban areas into the Cidlina River. In an effort to protect our precious drinking water sources and follow sustainable practices, the city is collecting rainwater, as revealed in a comprehensive water management study conducted as part of the MAURICE project.

At the centre of this initiative is the Winter Stadium, which is set to redefine how water is harvested. The stadium’s expansive roof provides the opportunity to collect a significant amount of rainwater – approximately 1,800 m3 per year. This abundant rainwater reserve is an attractive alternative to the current potable water consumption of 1280 m3 for ice production during the operational phase.

Rigorous quality tests have confirmed the suitability of the rainwater for ice production. While the irregular distribution of rainfall is a challenge, the required storage capacity to ensure continuous, uninterrupted maintenance of the ice surface using rainwater is indeed an issue. It is worth noting that the integration of groundwater from the Quaternary collector has become a pragmatic addition to rainwater reserves, increasing the reliability of water supply without compromising water quality.

Nový Bydžov, as a partner in the MAURICE project, is committed to sustainable development and is ready for a smooth transition from relying on potable water for ice production to sustainable rainwater use. The project promises to provide comprehensive technical documentation for the project, preparing the ground for the gradual implementation of rainwater use at the Winter Stadium, leading to a dramatic reduction in rainwater run-off and a commendable reduction in potable water consumption for stadium operations.

Join us in transforming water management towards sustainability.