Changes at "Citywide rain barrel distribution"

What problem would you like to solve?

Flood mitigation, water conservation

Why is it important to solve? Why is it relevant for the community?

This would be a preventative measure that would help mitigate flooding, alleviate stress on the stormwater drains, protect the environment, and prevent deaths during periods of intense rains, Additionally, the collected rainwater could be used during periods of droughts to slow the emptying of upstate reservoirs which provide NYC with clean drinking water.

As we have seen from Hurricane Ida and around the country, there has been an increase in intense weather patterns which have resulted in flooding and deaths. When NYC's sewer systems become overloaded during intense rain, stormwater is mixed with raw sewage. The untreated sewage is then released into local waterways, which can have a detrimental impact on local fauna and flora. Collecting rainwater is one part of the solution to prevent flooding, overloading of NYC's sewer system, and preservation of our local waterways. 

What idea do you have to address the problem?

I think it would be beneficial to the city, to distribute rain barrels to residential households/buildings much like how the DSNY distributes the brown bins for curbside composting. 

NYers could be encouraged to use collected rainwater for outdoor activities such as gardening, watering their lawn, or washing their cars, which would also help them save on their water bill. Use of previously collected rainwater would also be extremely beneficial during periods of intense drought to slow the emptying of upstate reservoirs that provide NYC with clean water. The diversion of large amounts of rainwater would help reduce stress on NYC's sewer system especially during extreme storms.

Who would that help?

DEP (Department of environmental protection), all New Yorkers, the environment