The implementation of floating covers in irrigation reservoirs is a crucial measure to combat water loss due to evaporation, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. These areas, characterized by water scarcity, face increasing challenges due to the effects of climate change, which exacerbates the frequency and severity of droughts. Floating covers significantly reduce water evaporation by creating a physical barrier between the water surface and the atmosphere. This reduction not only conserves a vital resource but also decreases the need to extract additional water, thus contributing to more sustainable water resource management.
In addition to conserving water, floating covers improve the quality of stored water. By limiting sunlight exposure, these covers reduce algal growth, which can proliferate rapidly in conditions of high light and heat. The decrease in algal growth not only keeps the water cleaner but also reduces the need for chemical treatments and frequent cleaning efforts, thereby lowering maintenance costs and improving the operational efficiency of irrigation systems.
In the context of climate change, where global temperatures are rising, and precipitation patterns are becoming increasingly erratic, floating covers represent an adaptable and effective solution for protecting water resources. Their implementation can play a key role in agricultural resilience, ensuring that farming-dependent communities in vulnerable areas can continue their activities with greater assurance of water availability.
In summary, the use of floating covers in irrigation reservoirs not only prevents water loss due to evaporation but also improves water quality by reducing algal growth, providing a comprehensive and efficient response to the current and future challenges posed by climate change.
Solution
Atarfil has developed ATARCOVER, a polyethylene geomembrane specifically designed to meet the requirements and demands of floating covers for irrigation reservoirs. This system includes auxiliary components that enable effective adaptation to varying levels of exploitation, ensuring optimal coverage of the water surface.
ATARCOVER is distinguished as a co-extruded bicolor geomembrane, manufactured with 100% virgin polyethylene resins using the most advanced flat-die calendaring technology developed in-house. This guarantees a uniform product with high performance, durability, and long-term efficiency.
The system is complemented by aerators that facilitate the evacuation of air and water vapor accumulated beneath the cover, and drainage pumps that ensure proper removal of rainwater.
ATARCOVER has been specially designed to offer excellent mechanical properties, UV resistance, flexibility, and weldability. These features, along with its high performance, make ATARCOVER the ideal solution for floating covers in irrigation reservoirs, ensuring water conservation and quality improvement.
