InnovADAPT

Rainflower is a sustainable multifunctional rainwater collector. Its central aim is reducing

freshwater withdrawal and energy used in water systems, namely distribution and treatment.

When inactive, the collector’s cover is stored in an aboveground column leaving the urban

space free. When active, the collector’s cover springs up as a flower, harvests rainwater and

provides shelter.

 

Rainflower’s structure allows both aboveground and underground water storage.

. Harvested water can be reused for plant irrigation, food washing and recreation. Collected rainwater has lower level of pollutants because the Rainflower is kept closed when unused. Rainflower is responsive to rainfall and strong winds.

 

Rainflower may be place in streets or on rooftops alongside other urban infrastructures,

including urban food greenhouses. Rainflower also has add-ons that maximise the usefulness

of the solution in urban settings. Bike parking, seating and educational interactive screens are

examples.

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Rainflower is a sustainability symbol that raises people’s awareness of water as a natural

resource and food production as a resource-intensive process. Moreover, Rainflower is

aesthetically appealing and so it increases citizens’ sense of belonging to renovated and new

residential areas. These social benefits are very important in cities seeking social cohesion.

Sustainable water use is an urban issue worldwide and aggravated by climate change. While

multinationals recognise it and act accordingly, some cities (e.g. Singapore) significantly

invest in water harvesting innovations. Rainflower is an answer to that need and its contextual

adaptability, modular feature and quick installation make it scalable across cities globally.