Water Resources Management
DSD has incorporated concepts of sustainable water resources management into its newly constructed facilities, raising their water resources utilisation rates. Major design elements include rainwater harvesting systems (RHS), underground stormwater storage systems, rain gardens and porous permeable pavements. Rain gardens, for instance, amalgamate water resources management and garden landscaping by filtering rainwater through garden plants and soil to improve runoff water quality and reduce the flow entering underground drains. In addition to aesthetic value, rain gardens provide ecological habitats and improve biodiversity.
Associated projects completed between 2012 and 2016 include Kowloon City Sewage Pumping Stations Nos. 1 and 2, Lai Chi Kok Drainage Tunnel, and Happy Valley Underground Stormwater Storage Scheme. We hope to incorporate related design in more major works in future.
RHS at Happy Valley Underground Stormwater Storage Scheme
Water cascade irrigated by RHS at Kowloon City Sewage Pumping Station No. 1
Rainwater Reuse
We can reduce use of potable water by tapping into rainwater, a precious natural resource. Lai Chi Kok Drainage Tunnel is equipped with a stilling basin as part of its hydraulic design. Weuse the intercepted rainwater for toilet flushing, irrigation and cleaning after suitable treatment as far as possible. Some of the water is used by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department for street cleaning purposes, conserving previous water resource.
Cleaning the streets with treated rainwater
Production of Reclaimed Water
DSD fully supports the Government’s proposals regarding the use of reclaimed water under its Total Water Management Strategy. DSD continues to produce and consume reclaimed water within its facilities while improving operational reliability of its water reclamation facilities. In 2015-16, DSD reclaimed water at an average rate of approximately 1,460 cubic metres per day for nonpotable purposes.
Water reclamation facilities at Tai Po STW
