Abstract:

Rapid urbanization has induced significant changes in the land use patterns causing problems of water scarcity and increased flood risks in present-day cities. The common issues related to urban flooding include economic loss, traffic disruptions and impacts on public health. The increased runoff quantity and pollutants it carries can have profound impacts on aquatic and riparian habitats in urban streams. Green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), also known as low impact development (LID) is an emerging approach used for on-site management of stormwater runoff. Specific examples include rain gardens, infiltration trenches, green roofs, vegetated swales, permeable pavements, and vegetated filter strips. GSI is a potential technology for reducing the quantity and improving the quality of urban stormwater runoff, thereby reducing its adverse impacts. In this talk, the literature-based effectiveness of GSI for reducing the runoff quantity and various stormwater pollutants will be shared. In addition, the common barriers to GSI, especially in developing countries, and their possible solutions will be deliberated.