Poland belongs to a country whose water system is poor. In the era of climate change, sustainable management of rainwater resources is important. Rainwater retention is becoming increasingly popular. As a result, a project to use rainwater to fill a swimming pool tank has emerged. The installation is to be built on a 420 m³ swimming pool in Bytom, Silesia.

Rainwater tanks, rainwater retention and management systems and gray water for the home, which purify water, have been available on the market for a long time. Such water is suitable for daily activities: washing, laundry, and even for consumption (special carbon filters). Rainwater retention has been common in western Europe for several decades. Retention technology there is at an advanced level. Modern solutions have been introduced successively in our country for several years. This delay does not prevent Polish scientists and manufacturers from setting trends in this sector.

Rainwater retention for the swimming pool is a pioneering project. According to the arrangements, it is a unique proposal, perhaps even on a global scale. The idea came from Edyta Kudlek, habilitated doctor, and Anna Lempart-Rapacewicz, habilitated doctor, and is supported by the Silesian University of Technology. The aim is to manage rainwater that, draining into the sewer system, is irretrievably wasted. The concept of rainwater retention for the swimming pool fits in with the convention of sustainable development. The project is expected to be completed in about three years. Funding is currently being agreed upon. The installation will consist of equipment that will catch, treat the water and ensure its purity at an acceptable level. The roof area of this indoor swimming pool is optimal for the purpose of rainwater harvesting. Thanks to the large catchment area, a fair amount of water can be expected.

The originators of the idea point to its economic potential. It could save considerable money. After all, the main cost of any swimming pool is water. With rising prices for this medium, free rainwater in the pool sounds very appealing. It would also be felt by residents who use the pool. Ticket prices would be much more favorable and less sensitive to increases in fees for the water.