What is meant by "stormwater harvesting"?

Stormwater harvesting refers to the process of collecting and storing rainwater for future use, which is represented by the correct choice. This practice is integral to sustainable water management as it mitigates the impact of urban runoff, reduces flooding, and conserves water resources. By capturing stormwater, communities can recycle this resource for various uses, such as irrigation, landscape watering, or even potable uses after proper treatment.

This method is particularly beneficial in areas where water scarcity is a concern, as it enhances the local water supply and reduces reliance on conventional water sources. It also helps in reducing the amount of pollution that enters waterways during heavy rains by capturing and utilizing the water before it becomes contaminated.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of stormwater management rather than the collection and use of rainwater. For instance, channeling stormwater to rivers does not include storing it for future use, filtering for pollution assessment deals primarily with analyzing stormwater for contaminants, and diverting stormwater from urban areas emphasizes managing its flow rather than harvesting it. These alternatives may be important for overall water management strategies, but they do not align with the concept of utilizing stormwater as a resource.