In one of the driest regions on Earth, Chile's Atacama Desert, researchers have discovered a novel method to combat water scarcity. With less than 0.04 inches of rainfall annually, communities in this arid environment traditionally rely on ancient underground water sources. However, an international team has explored an alternative approach inspired by science fiction—fog harvesting. This innovative technique could provide relief to thousands living in informal settlements without stable access to water. The study, published in Frontiers in Environmental Science, highlights the potential of fog collectors to transform urban water management in arid regions.

The research was conducted in Alto Hospicio, a rapidly expanding municipality where only a small fraction of residents are connected to water distribution networks. Experts tested simple fog collectors, which consist of fine nets supported by poles. These devices capture moisture from the air, condensing it into droplets that flow into storage tanks. Unlike more complex technologies, fog collectors operate passively without requiring electricity or additional energy. During peak months, August and September, these systems can collect up to 2.64 gallons of water per square meter daily, offering significant potential for addressing local water needs.

The study revealed that a modest area of fog collectors could provide enough water to irrigate green spaces within Alto Hospicio. Scaling up the system could meet the weekly water requirements of informal settlements. Additionally, fog water could support soil-free farming, potentially producing substantial quantities of leafy greens each month. Despite these promising results, challenges remain. The optimal collection sites are often at higher altitudes outside city limits, necessitating robust distribution infrastructure and large storage systems. Factors such as fog density, wind patterns, and elevated landforms also play crucial roles in the effectiveness of fog harvesting.

The researchers emphasize that fog harvesting should complement existing water sources rather than serve as a complete solution. Nonetheless, they advocate for integrating this renewable resource into national water strategies. By doing so, policymakers can enhance urban resilience to climate change and rapid urbanization while improving access to clean water. While not a panacea for water scarcity, fog harvesting represents an innovative and sustainable method that could become a vital tool in managing water resources in desert communities.