The Worth of Water Technology Portfolio

Abstract

This chapter examines the technology of water in the ancient world. In contrast to the global situation now, ancient cultures were aware of the worth of water and also of the importance to society of the social life of water. Case studies are presented from these cultures showing the technology and the importance of this technology to the very existence of these cultures. Ancient technologies from Iran, Peru and Yucatan are illustrated. The chapter goes on to examine low tech examples of the worth of water and their suitability and importance to developing countries. A particular example of an innovative method of promoting water and water technologies in developing countries is presented in a village technology education centre. Finally, the chapter presents case studies of rainwater harvesting systems and their adaptation in the developed world and such modern countries as Singapore and South Korea.