Environmental sustainability is a defining issue of our age; it is no secret. We are in the midst of a critical shift in the way we relate to our environment, motivated by the growing awareness of the impact human activities have on our climate and ecosystems. It’s the perfect time to delve deep into one such sustainable solution, which is Green Infrastructure. This keyword subject has caught the attention of experts and laypersons alike, given its direct impact on our daily lives.
What is Green Infrastructure?
Green Infrastructure (No. 17) refers to an approach to water management that is cost-effective, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. It involves the utilisation of vegetation, soils, and natural processes to manage water and create healthier urban environments[^1^]. At its core, green infrastructure serves two critical functions: it reduces stormwater runoff and improves water quality.
Benefits of Green Infrastructure
Green infrastructure offers various benefits to urban environments, which extend beyond water management.
Stormwater Management
By introducing natural landscapes and systems into urban environments, green infrastructure effectively manages rainwater where it falls. This reduce the load on traditional drainage systems, decreasing the risk of overflowing during heavy rainfall[^2^].
Water Quality Improvement
Green infrastructure helps filter pollutants out of rainfall runoff, enhancing the quality of the water entering our sewage system and eventually, our water bodies[^2^].
Climate Change Mitigation
Cities are heat sinks due to the prevalent use of concrete and asphalt. By introducing more green spaces, the “urban heat island” effect is mitigated, thereby reducing the overall city temperature and decreasing the need for air conditioning[^2^].
Increased Biodiversity
Green infrastructure introduces greater flora and fauna variety into urban environments, fostering local biodiversity[^3^].
Fields of Green Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure finds applications in a wide range of areas, including:
Rainwater Harvesting
This practice involves collecting and storing rainwater for future use, typically in a rain barrel or cistern. Rainwater harvesting can effectively reduce the dependence on mains water, bringing down utility bills and conserving water resources[^1^].
Stormwater Management
The implementation of green infrastructure can manage stormwater by delaying stormwater discharges (reducing the peak flow rate), reducing runoff volume, treating runoff on site, and allowing stormwater to evaporate or infiltrate into subsoil[^1^].
Green Roofs
Green roofs involve the growth of vegetation on rooftops, providing a wide range of environmental benefits, including insulation, stormwater management, biodiversity promotion, and aesthetics[^3^].
Cases of Successful Green Infrastructure Implementation
Philadelphia, USA
The Philadelphia Water Department made an investment to transform a third of its impervious asphalt land into absorbent green spaces. This green infrastructure initiative was successful in capturing approximately 1.5 inches of rainfall in the area[^4^].
Portland, USA
Portland’s Grey to Green Initiative invested in green roofs, trees, and green streets. The initiative has led to the creation of about 43 acres of ecoroofs, over 50,000 new street trees, and 900 green street facilities[^5^].
Conclusion
Green Infrastructure presents a sustainable, feasible solution to the problem of urban water management. By implementing these measures, cities around the world can not only promote the health and diversity of their local ecosystems but also improve the health and quality of life of their residents.
[^1^]: EPA. (2018). Green Infrastructure. https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure
[^2^]: Benedict M.A., McMahon E.T. (2006). Green Infrastructure: Smart Conservation for the 21st Century. https://www.sprawlwatch.org/greeninfrastructure.pdf
[^3^]: Wildlife Preservation Ireland. (n.d.). Biodiversity and Green Infrastructure. https://www.noticenature.ie/Green_Infrastructure.html
[^4^]: Philadelphia Water Department. (2011). Green City, Clean Waters. https://www.pwdplanreview.org/about/policy/green-city-clean-waters/
[^5^]: City of Portland, Oregon. (n.d.). Grey to Green Initiative. https://www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/47820
