What is Rainwater harvesting: How to harvest rainwater and DIY rainwater harvesting for home
Welcome to your beginner’s guide to Rainwater harvesting. If you’re looking to cut water bills, boost garden health, or simply live more sustainably, this section unpacks How to harvest rainwater and lays out a practical path for DIY rainwater harvesting at home. You’ll see real-world examples, simple steps, and clear comparisons to help you decide what fits your home, climate, and budget. Rainwater can become a reliable, free water source for your yard and, with careful planning, for some household uses too. Let’s break down the essentials in a friendly, easy-to-follow way. 💧🌿🏡
Who
Understanding Rainwater harvesting benefits who and how it can fit into daily life helps tailor a system that actually saves money and reduces waste. This approach is not a gimmick; it’s a practical habit that can transform how a family or a small property uses water. Below are common groups that gain the most from starting now, with concrete examples drawn from everyday life. 😊
- Homeowners with moderate rainfall who want to lower outdoor water bills by irrigating lawns and borders using stored water. 💧
- Renters in apartments with balconies or small yards who can install a compact Rain barrel system that doesn’t require major renovations. 🏡
- Gardeners growing drought-tolerant plants or vegetables who need a steady supply of water without running taps mid-afternoon. 🌶️
- Small schools and community centers looking to teach sustainability with a hands-on project that proves water can be reused responsibly. 📚
- Property managers seeking to reduce peak water demand on shared facilities and improve overall efficiency. 🏢
- Rural homes or cabins without municipal water connections, where every bucket counts during dry months. 🪣
- Eco-conscious families who want to model practical environmental stewardship for kids and neighbors. 🌍
Real-world example: A family in a temperate climate installed a 1000-L rain barrel beneath a common gutter. They learned that even with modest rainfall, the system could supply 60–70% of their garden’s irrigation needs during dry spells, reducing municipal water use and easing summer bills. The kids loved watching the water fill, and dad appreciated the practical skill of “catching” clean rain instead of treating it as waste. This is a tangible, achievable step for most homes. 💡
What
What exactly is rainwater harvesting? In simple terms, it’s capturing rain where it lands, saving it, and using it for non-potable tasks like garden irrigation, washing floors, and, where codes allow, toilet flushing or laundry. For beginners, the concept is best understood as a small system with three core parts: collection, storage, and use. This is where you start thinking about a Rain barrel, a basic Rainwater collection system, and how to scale up to fit your home. Below is a practical outline to demystify the process. ✨
- Collection: A roof surface funnels rain into downspouts that direct water toward a storage tank. 🌧️
- Storage: A barrel or tank holds the water for later use. Options range from 200 L to 5000 L for larger properties. 🛢️
- Filtration and basic safety: A simple screen prevents leaves, with optional inline filters for larger debris. 🧼
- Delivery: A spigot or hose lets you move water to garden beds or containers. 🚿
- Overflow and safety: An overflow outlet prevents tank pressure buildup and protects foundations. 🧰
- Maintenance: Regular check-ins keep filters clear and connections tight. 🧽
- Legal and code awareness: Some regions limit what you can store or reuse; local rules matter. 📜
Key figures you’ll encounter include estimates like 1 inch of rain on 1 m2 yielding about 1 liter of water, which helps you size systems for your roof area. For example, a 10 m by 5 m roof collects roughly 50 m2 of catchment area, and a 25 mm rain event can yield about 1250 L. That’s a powerful bump in your outdoor water budget if you plan ahead. And yes, this is DIY rainwater harvesting at its simplest: a barrel, a spout, and a little tackle to get started. 💡💧
When
Knowing When to start is mostly about timing and readiness. You don’t need a perfect climate to begin; you can start small and scale. Here are practical milestones that many beginners hit in their first season, with details to help you plan. This section is designed to be actionable for a real home, not just theoretical. 🗓️
- Start before the dry season or a heatwave, so you have water ready for the first weeks. 🌞
- Test your gutters and downspouts during a rain event to confirm water flows correctly. 💦
- Choose a low-cost first setup (a single Rain barrel) to learn maintenance. 🪣
- Track rainfall in your area to estimate how much you can harvest monthly. 📈
- Plan seasonal adjustments: more storage before dry spells, smaller during heavy rains to avoid overflow. 🧭
- Check local codes before using harvested water for any indoor tasks. 📝
- Decide on a maintenance calendar to avoid stagnation and mosquitoes. 🐝
Statistically, if your region averages 600 mm of rainfall per year, a modest setup can harvest tens of thousands of liters annually when paired with even a mid-size roof. If you live in a wetter climate, the same system will yield more water for garden use and can cut outdoor water bills by a meaningful margin. The timing of installations, combined with timely maintenance, often translates directly into more usable water and lower costs. 📊
Where
Where you place your rainwater harvesting components matters as much as how you build them. The right location improves performance, reduces risk, and makes maintenance easier. Here’s a practical guide to choosing spots that work for most homes, with a focus on accessibility, safety, and efficiency. 🗺️
- Under the eaves: Close to the downspout for direct water transfer and minimal piping. 🪟
- Near gardens: Easy access for watering cans or hoses, reducing the need to carry water far. 🌱
- Out of reach of children and pets: Safety first for any storage tank. 🧸
- Away from sun and heat: Keeps water cooler, reducing algae growth and odor. 🧊
- On solid ground: Choose level, well-drained soil to support the barrel’s weight. 🏗️
- Consider wind and weather exposure: Shielded spots prevent debris buildup. 🌬️
- Permit and zoning awareness: Check if any local rules affect placement near property lines or driveways. 📜
In practice, homeowners choose a side yard near the kitchen or laundry, pairing a compact Rain barrel with a gravity-fed hose, so refilling garden beds feels natural and quick. A well-placed system reduces the need to drag hoses across the yard on hot days, saving time and encouraging more frequent watering. 💡
Why
Why should you consider rainwater harvesting? Because it’s a practical, scalable solution that addresses cost, reliability, and environmental impact. Here’s a detailed look at the benefits, with comparisons that help you decide what matters most to you. This is where the real value shows up in daily life. 🏷️
- Cost savings: Outdoor irrigation can be a major line item in monthly water bills; harvesting reduces that expense. 💸
- Water resilience: Rainwater adds a buffer during droughts or supply disruptions. 🔒
- Plant health: Rainwater is typically free of the minerals and chemicals that tap water can carry, which many plants prefer for steady growth. 🌿
- Soil moisture balance: Rainwater helps maintain consistent soil moisture, supporting deeper root systems. 🧪
- Environmental impact: Collecting rain reduces stormwater runoff and erosion in urban areas. 🌍
- Property value: A well-planned, visible system can be a selling point or a pride-of-place feature. 🏡
- Educational value: Families and schools can learn by doing, integrating science and sustainability into daily routines. 📚
Pros and cons of the basic approach:
Pros: Lower water bills, Easy to install, Scales from tiny to large systems, Reduces runoff, Supports healthy plants, Educational for kids, Independence from municipal supply in emergencies 🌟
Cons: Initial setup costs, Requires maintenance, Indoor use limits in many regions, Space needed for bigger tanks, Potential algae or mosquito problems if not kept clean, Code restrictions in some areas, Not always a complete replacement for all water needs ⚠️
Quick story: A couple in a sunny climate swapped a portion of their lawn irrigation to a 300 L barrel system. Over two summers, their water bill dropped by around 20–25%, and they saw their plants stay lush during dry spells. They learned that the system worked best when paired with mulch and smart drip irrigation, reducing evaporation and maximizing delivered water. This real-world example shows that small changes compound over time. 💧🌞
How
How to start DIY rainwater harvesting is the heart of this guide. Below is a practical, step-by-step path that scratches the surface and can be adapted to almost any home. The steps are straightforward, but the impact can be deep—more garden color, less reliance on municipal water, and a clear sense of accomplishment. 🚀
- Assess your roof area and typical rainfall; calculate potential yield. 1 inch of rain on 1 m2 yields ~1 L, so bigger roofs yield more water. 📐
- Pick a storage option (start with a single Rain barrel and expand later if needed). 🪣
- Install a gutter leaf guard to keep debris out of the rain barrel. 🛡️
- Attach an overflow outlet to direct excess water away from foundations. 🧭
- Install a basic filter or screen to keep out large debris and insects. 🧼
- Connect a simple delivery method (hose bib, gravity-fed drip line) for easy garden watering. 🚿
- Set a maintenance routine (monthly checks, cleaning filters, and winterizing). 🧽
Begin small, scale with confidence, and document results. If you want to go beyond, you can add a second barrel, a first-flush diverter, or a simple pump for indoor use, always confirming with local codes before expanding. The table below helps visualize potential yields from different roof sizes and rainfall events. 👇
Roof area (m2) | Rainfall (mm) | Estimated water yield (L) | Storage suggestion | Primary use |
---|---|---|---|---|
50 | 25 | 1250 | 200–400 L barrel | Irrigation |
80 | 20 | 1600 | 250–600 L barrel | Garden beds |
100 | 40 | 4000 | 1000 L tank | Combined irrigation & cleaning |
60 | 60 | 3600 | 600–1000 L tank | Vegetable plots |
120 | 15 | 1800 | 500 L + 1000 L | Soil moisture & drip |
200 | 20 | 4000 | 1500 L | Lawn irrigation |
30 | 100 | 3000 | 3000 L | Full seasonal needs |
75 | 50 | 3750 | 750–1500 L | Ornamental beds |
150 | 25 | 3750 | 1000 L | Mixed use |
90 | 30 | 2700 | 500–1000 L | Containers & pots |
Remember these digits are guidelines and depend on rainfall patterns, roof material, and how efficiently you route the water. The upshot is simple: with minimal cost and effort, Rainwater harvesting can turn a passive water catch into a daily tool for greener gardening and lower bills. 💡💧
How much water can you really save?
Consider the following insights to set a realistic expectation for your home. The examples below illustrate what’s possible when you combine a simple start with mindful usage. 💬
- Shallow-rooted beds may need less frequent watering if you pause during peak heat and irrigate early morning. 🌅
- Mulching reduces evaporation and extends the value of captured water. 🥣
- Even a single barrel in a small yard can meet a sizable portion of peak irrigation needs in dry months. 🌞
- Automation with a simple timer can improve the consistency of water delivery to plants. ⏱️
- Connecting a basic drip system increases water efficiency by reducing runoff. 💧
- Overflow management protects your foundation and landscape during heavy rain events. 🛡️
- Regular inspections reduce the risk of algae, mosquitoes, and leaks, preserving water quality. 🧼
Quotes and expert thoughts
“Water is the driving force of all nature.” — Leonardo da Vinci. This timeless idea reminds us that water shapes life, landscapes, and habits. By catching rain, you hedge against droughts and create a flexible, home-based resource. Understanding the rhythm of rain helps you plan smarter, not harder.
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” — Albert Einstein. In practice, observing rainfall patterns helps you design a system that fits your climate, your garden, and your daily routines.
How this knowledge translates to everyday life
To translate ideas into action, you don’t need perfection—just progress. Use rain as a practical ally for plants, cleaning tasks, and even seasonal color. The most important thing is to start simple, observe how water behaves in your yard, and adjust as needed. This is not about chasing every fancy gadget; it’s about making rain work for you. 💡🌦️
FAQs about this section
- What is the simplest way to begin with rainwater harvesting? Start with a single Rain barrel under a downspout and use the water for garden irrigation. 🪣
- Do I need a permit to install a rain barrel? It depends on your location; check local codes before purchasing materials. 📜
- Can I use harvested rainwater indoors? In many places, it’s limited to non-potable uses unless you meet specific filtration standards. 🧊
- How much water can I expect to harvest from my roof? A rough rule is 1 L per mm of rain per m2 of catchment area. ☔
- What maintenance is required? Clean screens, check connections, and ensure overflow paths are clear at least monthly. 🧼
- What are common mistakes? Overestimating storage needs, neglecting filtration, and letting algae grow. 🔎
- Is rainwater harvesting worth it in my climate? It’s most effective where outdoor water use is high and rainfall is moderate; even in mixed climates, it reduces waste and costs. 🌎
Want to explore more on this topic? The next section dives into where to install your rain barrel, how to choose system options, and how to optimize your setup for your specific garden and home. 🌱
FAQ prompts are designed to help you move from curiosity to an actionable plan. If you’re ready, you can outline your space, pick a barrel size in a budget you’re comfortable with, and begin with a simple watering routine. The key is momentum, not perfection. 🚀
Who?
Before you start storing rainwater, you might assume it’s only for big properties or green thumbs with perfect sunny summers. After thinking it through, you’ll realize that virtually anyone can benefit: a busy family in a suburban home, a renter with a small balcony garden, a retiree tending a 20–30 m² vegetable patch, a school with a playground, or a small urban farm. The Bridge here is simple: if you want to cut your water bill, protect outdoor plants during dry spells, or reduce reliance on mains water, storing rainwater is for you. This isn’t reserved for “experts” or those with a large budget; it’s for everyday people who want more control over their water, lower bills, and a greener lifestyle. Rainwater harvesting is a practical, scalable approach that fits a balcony, a backyard, or a roofed patio. If you’re reading this, you’re probably curious about: Rain barrel setups, How to harvest rainwater without breaking the bank, and turning a small Collect rainwater for garden system into real savings. 💧🌿
- Homeowners who want to slash irrigation costs and protect plants during droughts. 💧
- Renters with permission to install a compact system on a balcony or patio. 🏢
- Gardeners growing vegetables, herbs, or ornamentals that need steady moisture. 🌱
- School or community gardens looking to teach sustainability with a hands-on project. 🏫
- Small urban farms that need a reliable backup water source during dry spells. 🚜
- Property managers aiming to reduce peak water demand in multi-unit buildings. 🏘️
- Anyone curious about DIY rainwater harvesting as a practical home improvement. 🛠️
Quote to consider: “Water is the driving force of all nature.” — a famous reminder that every drop saved matters. Understanding who benefits helps you tailor a plan that fits your space, budget, and climate. DIY rainwater harvesting isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, small wins, and steady gains for your home and garden. 💡💦
What?
What you store, and how you store it, determines how much you’ll save and how easy it is to maintain. The Bridge from “this could help” to “this is working” hinges on choosing the right components, setup, and safety steps. In simplest terms, Rainwater harvesting means collecting rain from your roof, filtering out debris, storing it in a tank or barrel, and using it for garden irrigation, toilet flushing, or laundry. For a Rain barrel or larger Rainwater collection system, the core idea is the same, but the scale and complexity differ. Below is a practical breakdown you can follow even if you’re starting small today. 😊
- Rain barrel or tank: the main storage container, usually placed near the downspout. 💧
- Gutter diverter or inlet filter: keeps debris out and helps water flow smoothly. 🧼
- First-flush device: diverts the initial dirty rainwater away from the barrel. 🛠️
- Downspout adapter: redirects runoff into the barrel without leaks. 🔗
- Overflow outlet: safely channels excess water away from foundations. 🏠
- Screen or mesh: keeps leaves and pests from entering the water. 🪹
- Basic pump or gravity-fed tap: makes water easy to use in the garden. 🚿
- Maintenance plan: regular cleaning, checking seals, and testing water perception. 🧰
Here are Collect rainwater for garden practical ideas you can apply today, regardless of space or budget. 🌧️ 🌿 ♻️ 🧰 💡 💧 🏡
When?
When to start storing rainwater is less about a calendar and more about readiness: your roof, your rainfall pattern, and your garden’s needs. The Bridge here is tangible: the moment you install even a small barrel, you begin to reduce mains water use. If your area gets regular rain, you can begin with a 200–300 L barrel and adapt later. If you’re in a dry or semi-arid climate, starting early means you’ll capture more of the rainy season and reduce stress on your irrigation system. In this chapter, we’ll map out when you should act, season by season, and how to scale as you learn your local rainfall patterns. Storing rainwater for home isn’t about a perfect system from day one; it’s a progressive journey that grows with your home and garden. Here are timing tips based on climate, budget, and goals. 💧🌦️
- Spring: install a starter barrel before the growing season begins to soak up April showers. 🌸
- Summer: use stored water during dry spells to keep pots and planters lush. 🌞
- Autumn: service filters and screens after the leaf fall, and prepare for winter. 🍁
- Winter (where freezing occurs): choose frost-safe materials and consider indoor storage options. ❄️
- Budget phase: start with a basic kit and upgrade as you verify water needs. 💶
- Family size: larger households may need bigger tanks or multiple barrels. 👨👩👧👦
- Plant needs: heat-loving plants drink more water in hot months; plan accordingly. 🌶️
Where?
Placement matters for safety, efficiency, and ease of use. The Bridge is about choosing a spot that minimizes risk while maximizing accessibility. A good setup should be near your house, protected from sun and freezing temperatures, and accessible for maintenance. You’ll want to avoid direct runoff into the foundation and consider security and wildlife. The following placement tips help you decide the best location for a Rain barrel or a larger Rainwater collection system that complements your home’s design. DIY rainwater harvesting works best when you think about space, access, and safety from day one. 🏡🔧
- Near a downspout for easy water transfer from roof to barrel. 🚰
- Shaded spot to slow algae growth and reduce evaporation. ☂️
- On a stable, level base to prevent tipping. 🧱
- Accessible for maintenance and emptying if needed. 🧰
- Away from living spaces where mosquitoes could breed; install screens. 🦟
- Consider drainage: use an overflow pipe to route excess water away from foundations. 🌊
- Insulate or heat-tape sections if you’re in freezing climates. 🧊
Why?
Why store rainwater? Because it’s a smart, practical habit with clear benefits for your wallet, garden, and the environment. Before you begin, imagine the status quo: paying for city water to moisten a thirsty lawn, wasting rainfall that could be redirected, and facing higher bills during peak seasons. After adopting rainwater storage, you’ll see tangible changes: lower water bills, healthier plants, and a smaller environmental footprint. The Bridge is the transition—from passive water use to proactive management. Rainwater harvesting aligns with sustainable living and provides a buffer during droughts, while helping you teach kids and visitors about practical environmental stewardship. Here are concrete reasons supported by data and expert voices. 💬🌍
Statistics you’ll hear echoed by researchers and environmentalists:
- Outdoor water use accounts for about 40–60% of residential consumption in many regions. 💧
- Even a small 200 L barrel can reduce garden irrigation needs by 20–40% during hot months. 🌞
- Households with rainwater systems often see a 30–50 EUR/month reduction in summer bills in temperate climates. 💶
- DIY installations can cut initial costs by 40–70% compared with turnkey systems. 🛠️
- In drought-prone areas, rainfall harvesting can provide a reliable backup water source for gardens. 🌧️
- Regular maintenance reduces clogging and algae, extending system life by 3–5 years on average. 🧰
Expert voices remind us of the value of water. For example, David Attenborough notes that protecting water resources supports all life on Earth, while Aldo Leopold’s land ethic links respectful water use to wiser land management. These ideas reinforce that rainwater storage isn’t just a gadget; it’s a small, everyday act with broad implications. Collect rainwater for garden and Storing rainwater for home practices turn local rainfall into local resilience. 💬🌊
How?
The actionable bridge from idea to implementation is a clear, safe, and scalable 7-step process. You’ll start with a plan, pick a starter kit, install it, and then grow as you learn your climate and usage. This is where Rainwater harvesting becomes a repeatable routine, not a one-time project. Below is a practical, step-by-step guide to getting started and expanding later. We also include a quick future-looking section to spark ideas for enhancements and smarter systems. But beware: skipping filters or an overflow plan can lead to algae growth or water damage. Plan carefully. 💡💦
- Assess your roof area and typical rainfall to estimate how much water you can collect. 🔎
- Choose a starter storage container (200–300 L) and upgrade later if needed. 🛠️
- Install a clean-down system: gutter diverter, first-flush, and fine mesh. 🧼
- Place the barrel on a stable base near a downspout. 🧱
- Set up an overflow path away from the house to prevent foundation issues. 🌀
- Connect a simple pump or gravity-fed tap for garden use. 🚿
- Maintain monthly checks: clean screens, inspect seals, and test water quality. 🧰
DIY rainwater harvesting can be cost-effective and rewarding. If you’re curious about the science of capture, here are some practical tips to optimize performance. How to harvest rainwater effectively often comes down to two things: filtration and timing. Filtration keeps sediment and pests out; timing (when you water your plants) ensures you maximize stored water during dry periods. 🌧️ 🌿 💧
Future directions in rainwater storage
Smart, sustainable households are increasingly adopting features like connected sensors, rain gauges, and automated irrigation that uses stored rainwater only when needed. The trend is toward modular, expandable systems that farmers and homeowners can configure over time. If you’re imagining upgrades, think about multi-tank networks, insulated lines for winter, and remote monitoring to minimize waste. This is where DIY rainwater harvesting evolves from a backyard project into a data-driven habit. 💡🔬
Myth busting: common misconceptions and facts
Myth: “Rainwater isn’t clean enough for any use.” Fact: With basic filtration and a screen, you can safely irrigate most outdoor plants and flush toilets in many setups. Myth: “Rain barrels overflow and waste rain.” Fact: Proper overflow routing converts a potential problem into a controlled water source. Myth: “Only big properties can benefit.” Fact: Even small cities and balconies can use compact barrels for herbs and potted plants. Debunking these myths helps people start with confidence. 🧪 🗣️ ✨
FAQs
- How much water can I realistically collect in a year?
- That depends on roof area, rainfall, and storage capacity. A typical 200–300 L barrel in a temperate climate may collect 200–600 L per month during rainy seasons, enough to cover a portion of garden irrigation. In wetter regions, you could exceed 1,000 L per month in peak months. Start small and scale up as you observe rain patterns.
- Do I need a pro to install a rainwater system?
- Not necessarily. A basic rain barrel with a simple diverter and overflow can be installed in a few hours. For larger systems or unheated spaces, you might want professional help to ensure proper filtration, filtration integrity, and frost protection.
- Is rainwater safe for plants and toilets?
- Yes for garden irrigation with basic filtration; many systems support toilet flushing and laundry with additional filtration and treatment. Always check local regulations and ensure proper filtration for any non-potable uses.
- Will rainwater freeze in winter?
- In freezing climates, use frost-proof barrels, place the storage above ground on insulated bases, or store in a shed, garage, or indoors and use directly in warmer months.
- What are the main maintenance tasks?
- Regularly clean screens and filters, check seals and lids, drain and rinse barrels annually, and inspect overflow paths to prevent blockages.
Option | Best For | Capacity (L) | Cost EUR | Pros | Cons | Maintenance (per year) | Best Location | Typical Use | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rain barrel (plastic, 200 L) | Small gardens, balcony setups | 200 | 50–150 | Low cost, easy install | Limited capacity, may heat up in sun | 2–4 | Near downspout | Irrigation | Starter option; easy upgrade path |
Rain barrel (300 L) | Moderate gardens | 300 | 70–180 | More storage, good for mid-size yards | Still limited in droughts | 2–4 | Ground or stand | Garden irrigation | Popular mid-range choice |
Cistern (1000 L) | Medium yards, raised planters | 1000 | 250–600 | Higher capacity, fewer refills | Requires sturdy base, more plumbing | 3–5 | Ground level or elevated | Garden and toilet flushing | Balanced upgrade |
Underground tank (2000 L) | Larger properties | 2000 | 800–1500 | Kept cool, space-saving | Complex install | 4–6 | Buried or shed adjacent | Irrigation, laundry | Best for full-scale use |
First-flush diverter | Water quality | 0–N/A | 60–160 | Improves water quality | Requires plumbing | 1–2 | Near barrel | Filter prep | Essential for quality |
Screen mesh | Gardens and tanks | 0 | 5–30 | Prevents debris | Needs cleaning | 1–2 | On barrel | Fine filtration | Low-cost protection |
Gutter adaptor | Easy connection | 0 | 10–40 | Simple install | Fit may vary | 1 | Along gutter | Direct flow | Versatile accessory |
Overflow outlet | Safety | 0 | 15–50 | Protects foundation | Partial drainage | 1 | Barrel base | Water management | Critical safety feature |
Pump kit | Ease of use | 0 | 25–120 | Convenient access | Requires power | 1 | Near barrel | Garden watering | Optional for small systems |
DIY return kit | Cost-conscious builders | 0 | 0–80 | Low cost, customizable | Time to assemble | 1–2 | Anywhere sheltered | Various uses | Great for experimenting |
What’s next?
If you’re ready to start, pick a spot, grab a barrel, and begin collecting. Keep a simple log of rainfall, water collected, and plant growth. You’ll soon see how small changes multiply—more vibrant plants, lower bills, and a quieter garden in the rain. And if you want more, you can expand to a larger system, integrate a timer for irrigation, or add a micro-filter for a wider range of uses. The journey from a single barrel to a complete Rainwater collection system can be as simple or as advanced as you want. Rain barrel by How to harvest rainwater is a gateway to a more sustainable home, and every drop saved adds up. 💧🌍