Comprehensive review on fog collectors for drinking water supply in remote areas

Fog water harvesting has emerged as a promising and cost-effective solution to address water scarcity, particularly in remote and arid regions where conventional water supply systems are often unfeasible. This review highlights the potential of fog collectors for providing drinking water, with a focus on successful large fog collector projects worldwide. Despite their potential, sustainability challenges persist due to maintenance issues influenced by environmental conditions and social factors. Recent advancements in fog collection technologies are primarily achieved through the use of nanotechnology and structural improvements, aiming to develop efficient and low-cost fog collectors adaptable to diverse conditions. This paper critically examines the conceptual designs, experimental innovations, and operational performances of fog harvesting systems, specifically for drinking water supply in remote areas. By reviewing global successes and failures, it identifies key challenges and offers insights to enhance future research and practical applications, contributing to sustainable water resource management in regions with limited water access.