Environmental Science › Environmental Engineering

Urban Stormwater Management Solutions

Works Count: 35381

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Description

This cluster of papers focuses on urban stormwater management, sustainable drainage systems, and the impact of urbanization on hydrology and water quality. It covers topics such as low impact development practices, bioretention technology, the effects of impervious surfaces, rainwater harvesting, pollutant removal, and the influence of climate change on urban drainage systems.

Keywords

Urban Stormwater Management; Sustainable Drainage Systems; Low Impact Development Practices; Bioretention Technology; Urban Hydrology; Water Quality; Impervious Surfaces; Rainwater Harvesting; Pollutant Removal; Climate Change Impact

Laboratory Study of Biological Retention for Urban Stormwater Management

2001-01-01

Allen P. Davis , Mohammad Shokouhian , Himanshu Sharma +1 more

Urban stormwater runoff contains a broad range of pollutants that are transported to natural water systems. A practice known as biological retention (bioretention) has been suggested to manage stormwater runoff … Urban stormwater runoff contains a broad range of pollutants that are transported to natural water systems. A practice known as biological retention (bioretention) has been suggested to manage stormwater runoff from small, developed areas. Bioretention facilities consist of porous soil, a topping layer of hardwood mulch, and a variety of different plant species. A detailed study of the characteristics and performance of bioretention systems for the removal of several heavy metals (copper, lead, and zinc) and nutrients (phosphorus, total Kjeldahl nitrogen [TKN], ammonium, and nitrate) from a synthetic urban stormwater runoff was completed using batch and column adsorption studies along with pilot-scale laboratory systems. The roles of the soil, mulch, and plants in the removal of heavy metals and nutrients were evaluated to estimate the treatment capacity of laboratory bioretention systems. Reductions in concentrations of all metals were excellent (> 90%) with specific metal removals of 15 to 145 mg/m2 per event. Moderate reductions of TKN, ammonium, and phosphorus levels were found (60 to 80%). Little nitrate was removed, and nitrate production was noted in several cases. The importance of the mulch layer in metal removal was identified. Overall results support the use of bioretention as a stormwater best management practice and indicate the need for further research and development.

Water Quality Improvement through Bioretention Media: Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal

2006-03-01

Allen P. Davis , Mohammad Shokouhian , Himanshu Sharma +1 more

High nutrient inputs and eutrophication continue to be one of the highest priority water quality problems. Bioretention is a low‐impact development technology that has been advocated for use in urban … High nutrient inputs and eutrophication continue to be one of the highest priority water quality problems. Bioretention is a low‐impact development technology that has been advocated for use in urban and other developed areas. This work provides an in‐depth analysis on removal of nutrients from a synthetic stormwater runoff by bioretention. Results have indicated good removal of phosphorus (70 to 85%) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (55 to 65%). Nitrate reduction was poor (<20%) and, in several cases, nitrate production was noted. Variations in flowrate (intensity) and duration had a moderate affect on nutrient removal. Mass balances demonstrate the importance of water attenuation in the facility in reducing mass nutrient loads. Captured nitrogen can be converted to nitrate between storm events and subsequently washed from the system. Analysis on the fate of nutrients in bioretention suggests that accumulation of phosphorus and nitrogen may be controlled by carefully managing growing and harvesting of vegetation.

Stream restoration in urban catchments through redesigning stormwater systems: looking to the catchment to save the stream

2005-09-01

Christopher J. Walsh , Tim D. Fletcher , Anthony Richard Ladson

Restoration of streams degraded by urbanization has usually been attempted by enhancement of instream habitat or riparian zones. Such restoration approaches are unlikely to substantially improve instream ecological condition because … Restoration of streams degraded by urbanization has usually been attempted by enhancement of instream habitat or riparian zones. Such restoration approaches are unlikely to substantially improve instream ecological condition because they do not match the scale of the degrading process. Recent studies of urban impacts on streams in Melbourne, Australia, on water chemistry, algal biomass and assemblage composition of diatoms and invertebrates, suggested that the primary degrading process to streams in many urban areas is effective imperviousness (EI), the proportion of a catchment covered by impervious surfaces directly connected to the stream by stormwater drainage pipes. The direct connection of impervious surfaces to streams means that even small rainfall events can produce sufficient surface runoff to cause frequent disturbance through regular delivery of water and pollutants; where impervious surfaces are not directly connected to streams, small rainfall events are intercepted and infiltrated. We, therefore, identified use of alternative drainage methods, which maintain a near-natural frequency of surface runoff from the catchment, as the best approach to stream restoration in urban catchments and then used models of relationships between 14 ecological indicators and EI to determine restoration objectives. Ecological condition, as indicated by concentrations of water-quality variables, algal biomass, and several measures of diatom and macroinvertebrate assemblage composition, declined with increasing EI until a threshold was reached (EI = 0.01–0.14), beyond which no further degradation was observed. We showed, in a sample catchment, that it is possible to redesign the drainage system to reduce EI to a level at which the models predict detectable improvement in most ecological indicators. Distributed, low-impact design measures are required that intercept rainfall from small events and then facilitate its infiltration, evaporation, transpiration, or storage for later in-house use.

Storm water runoff concentration matrix for urban areas

2006-12-14

Patricia Göbel , Carsten Dierkes , Wilhelm G. Coldewey

Partitioning and First Flush of Metals in Urban Roadway Storm Water

1997-02-01

John J. Sansalone , Steven G. Buchberger

Storm water runoff from urban roadways often contains significant quantities of metal elements and solids. These anthropogenic constituents are generated mainly from traffic-related activities. Metal elements partition into dissolved and … Storm water runoff from urban roadways often contains significant quantities of metal elements and solids. These anthropogenic constituents are generated mainly from traffic-related activities. Metal elements partition into dissolved and particulate-bound fractions as a function of pH, pavement residence time, and solids concentration. Lateral pavement sheet flow from an experimental field site on a heavily traveled urban highway in Cincinnati was sampled during five rainfall runoff events in 1995. Results indicate that Zn, Cd, and Cu are mainly in dissolved form while Pb, Fe, and Al are mainly particulate-bound. Dissolved fractions of Zn, Cd, and Cu exhibited a strong first flush in lateral pavement sheet flow. Pb exhibited a weak first flush for all events. Event mean concentrations of Zn, Cd, and Cu exceed surface water quality discharge standards. Findings from this study will assist in the development of effective control strategies for the immobilization of metal elements and solids in urban runoff.

Loading estimates of lead, copper, cadmium, and zinc in urban runoff from specific sources

2001-08-01

Allen P. Davis , Mohammad Shokouhian , Shubei Ni

Urban stormwater quality: Summary of contaminant data

1995-05-01

David K. Makepeace , Daniel W. Smith , Stephen J. Stanley

Abstract Storm water quality can have a significant impact on receiving water bodies. Two of the major impacts can be to aquatic Ufe in the receiving water body and downstream … Abstract Storm water quality can have a significant impact on receiving water bodies. Two of the major impacts can be to aquatic Ufe in the receiving water body and downstream water users that might use the water as a raw water source for drinking water. With increased understanding of the importance of drinking water quality to public health and the recognition that protecting raw water sources is an integral component of the water treatment process, there is a greater need to identify possible contaminants found in storm water that impact the receiving water quality. Presented is a literature review to identify and quantify contaminant data available on storm water. The article focuses on work that presented specific chemical, physical, and biological parameters rather than the traditionally used overall water quality parameters, such as biochemical oxygen demand and total suspended solids. To assess impacts and to put into perspective the importance of the reported concentrations, values were compared with pertinent guidelines, regulations, and levels that have been reported to cause possible adverse impacts.

Urbanization Effects on Watershed Hydrology and In-Stream Processes in the Southern United States

2010-09-13

Michael O’Driscoll , Sandra M. Clinton , Anne J. Jefferson +2 more

The southern United States is characterized by a humid, subtropical climate and consists of 16 states (Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, … The southern United States is characterized by a humid, subtropical climate and consists of 16 states (Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware, and Maryland) and Washington DC. Currently this region is experiencing the largest net population growth in the U.S. Over the last century, the expansion of large urban centers and impervious area in the region has altered the hydrologic cycle. This review synthesizes regional research that shows how watershed hydrology, groundwater recharge, stream geomorphology, climate, biogeochemistry, and stream ecology have been affected by urbanization and the expansion of watershed impervious area.

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Analysis and predictive models of stormwater runoff volumes, loads, and pollutant concentrations from watersheds in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, Minnesota, USA

2002-04-01

Patrick L. Brezonik , Teresa H. Stadelmann

Impacts of impervious surface on watershed hydrology: A review

2005-12-01

William D. Shuster , J. V. Bonta , Hale W. Thurston +2 more

Increased impervious surface area is a consequence of urbanization, with correspondent and significant effects on the hydrologic cycle. It is intuitive that an increased proportion of impervious surface brings with … Increased impervious surface area is a consequence of urbanization, with correspondent and significant effects on the hydrologic cycle. It is intuitive that an increased proportion of impervious surface brings with it shorter lag times between onset of precipitation and subsequently higher runoff peaks and total volume of runoff in receiving waters. Yet, documentation on quantitative relationships between the extent and type of impervious area and these hydrologic factors remains dispersed across several disciplines. We present a literature review on this subject to better understand and synthesize distinctions among different types of impermeable surface and their relative impacts, and describe the manner in which these surfaces are assessed for their putative impacts on landscape hydrology.

First flush analysis of urban storm runoff

2002-07-01

J. H. Lee , Ki Woong Bang , Lloyd H. Ketchum +2 more

Distribution of pollutant mass vs volume in stormwater discharges and the first flush phenomenon

1998-08-01

Jean-Luc Bertrand-Krajewski , G. Chebbo , Agnès Saget

Evaluation and Optimization of Bioretention Media for Treatment of Urban Storm Water Runoff

2005-10-17

Chi-hsu Hsieh , Allen P. Davis

Bioretention is a relatively new urban storm water best management practice. The objective of this study is to provide insight on media characteristics that control bioretention water management behavior. Eighteen … Bioretention is a relatively new urban storm water best management practice. The objective of this study is to provide insight on media characteristics that control bioretention water management behavior. Eighteen bioretention columns and six existing bioretention facilities were evaluated employing synthetic runoff. In columns, the runoff infiltration rate through different media mixtures ranged from 0.28 to 8.15cm∕min at a fixed 15 cm head. For pollutant removals, the results showed excellent removal for oil/grease (>96%). Total lead removal (from 66 to >98%) decreased when the total suspended solids level in the effluent increased (removed from 29 to >96%). The removal efficiency of total phosphorus ranged widely (4–99%), apparently due to preferential flow patterns, and both nitrate and ammonium were moderate to poorly removed, with removals ranging from 1 to 43% and from 2 to 49%, respectively. Two more on-site experiments were conducted during a rainfall event to compare with laboratory investigation. For bioretention design, two media design profiles are proposed; >96%TSS, >96%O∕G, >98%lead, >70%TP, >9%nitrate, and >20%ammonium removals are expected with these designs

A review of models for low impact urban stormwater drainage

2006-03-04

Alexander H. Elliott , Sam Trowsdale

URBANIZATION AND STREAM QUALITY IMPAIRMENT1

1979-08-01

Richard Daniel Klein

ABSTRACT: A study was conducted in the Piedmont province of Maryland to determine if a relationship exists between stream quality and the extent of watershed urbanization. During the first phase … ABSTRACT: A study was conducted in the Piedmont province of Maryland to determine if a relationship exists between stream quality and the extent of watershed urbanization. During the first phase of the study 27 small watersheds, having similar characteristics but varied according to land use, were investigated. Using these controlled conditions, eliminating as many interferences as possible, this first phase was intended to determine if a definite relationship did exist between the two factors. Finding that the first phase was successful the second was initiated which consisted of a comparison of biological sampling data, from other studies, with degree of watershed urbanization. The purpose of this second phase was to ascertain if the relationship between degrees of urbanization and decline in stream quality was linear as watershed area increased and in streams spread throughout the Maryland Piedmont. The principal finding of this study was that stream quality impairment is first evidenced when watershed imperviousness reaches 12%, but does not become severe until imperviousness reaches 30%.

Low Impact Development Practices: A Review of Current Research and Recommendations for Future Directions

2007-09-04

Michael E. Dietz

Nutrient and sediment removal by stormwater biofilters: A large-scale design optimisation study

2008-06-25

Katia Bratières , Tim D. Fletcher , Ana Deletić +1 more

The effects of low impact development on urban flooding under different rainfall characteristics

2013-09-09

Huapeng Qin , Zhuo-xi Li , Guangtao Fu

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Hydrologic and pollutant removal performance of stormwater biofiltration systems at the field scale

2008-12-12

Belinda E. Hatt , Tim D. Fletcher , Ana Deletić

SUDS, LID, BMPs, WSUD and more – The evolution and application of terminology surrounding urban drainage

2014-07-23

Tim D. Fletcher , William D. Shuster , William F. Hunt +7 more

The management of urban stormwater has become increasingly complex over recent decades. Consequently, terminology describing the principles and practices of urban drainage has become increasingly diverse, increasing the potential for … The management of urban stormwater has become increasingly complex over recent decades. Consequently, terminology describing the principles and practices of urban drainage has become increasingly diverse, increasing the potential for confusion and miscommunication. This paper documents the history, scope, application and underlying principles of terms used in urban drainage and provides recommendations for clear communication of these principles. Terminology evolves locally and thus has an important role in establishing awareness and credibility of new approaches and contains nuanced understandings of the principles that are applied locally to address specific problems. Despite the understandable desire to have a 'uniform set of terminology', such a concept is flawed, ignoring the fact that terms reflect locally shared understanding. The local development of terminology thus has an important role in advancing the profession, but authors should facilitate communication between disciplines and between regions of the world, by being explicit and accurate in their application.

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Understanding, management and modelling of urban hydrology and its consequences for receiving waters: A state of the art

2012-09-08

Tim D. Fletcher , Hervé Andrieu , Perrine Hamel

Effectiveness of Low Impact Development Practices: Literature Review and Suggestions for Future Research

2012-06-07

Laurent Ahiablame , Bernard A. Engel , Indrajeet Chaubey

Long-term stormwater quantity and quality performance of permeable pavement systems

2003-09-03

Benjamin O. Brattebo , Derek B. Booth

Review of permeable pavement systems

2007-02-03

Miklas Scholz , Piotr Grabowiecki

Impervious Surfaces and Water Quality: A Review of Current Literature and Its Implications for Watershed Planning

2002-05-01

Elizabeth Brabec , Stacey Schulte , Paul L. Richards

Impervious surfaces have for many years been recognized as an indicator of the intensity of the urban environment and, with the advent of urban sprawl, they have become a key … Impervious surfaces have for many years been recognized as an indicator of the intensity of the urban environment and, with the advent of urban sprawl, they have become a key issue in habitat health. Although a considerable amount of research has been done to define impervious thresholds for water quality degradation, there are a number of flaws in the assumptions and methodologies used. Given refinement of the methodology, accurate and usable parameters for preventative watershed planning can be developed, which include impervious surface thresholds and a balance between pervious and impervious surfaces within a watershed.

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Key issues for sustainable urban stormwater management

2012-05-26

A. E. Barbosa , João Nuno Fernandes , Luís Mesquita David

A Review of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems Considering the Climate Change and Urbanization Impacts

2014-04-22

Qianqian Zhou

Climate change and urbanization are converging to challenge city drainage infrastructure due to their adverse impacts on precipitation extremes and the environment of urban areas. Sustainable drainage systems have gained … Climate change and urbanization are converging to challenge city drainage infrastructure due to their adverse impacts on precipitation extremes and the environment of urban areas. Sustainable drainage systems have gained growing public interest in recent years, as a result of its positive effects on water quality and quantity issues and additional recreational amenities perceived in the urban landscape. This paper reviews recent progress in sustainable drainage development based on literature across different disciplinary fields. After presenting the key elements and criteria of sustainable drainage design, various devices and examples of sustainable drainage systems are introduced. The state-of-the-art model approaches and decision-aid tools for assessing the sustainable alternatives are discussed and compared. The paper further explores some limitations and difficulties in the application of the innovative solutions and suggests an integrated and trans-disciplinary approach for sustainable drainage design.

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Identification and quantification of the hydrological impacts of imperviousness in urban catchments: A review

2011-02-19

Carol Jacobson

Streams in the Urban Landscape

2008-01-02

Michael J. Paul , Judy L. Meyer

Assessing the impact of urbanization on storm runoff in a peri-urban catchment using historical change in impervious cover

2014-04-19

James D. Miller , Hyeon-Jun Kim , Thomas Kjeldsen +3 more

This paper investigates changes in storm runoff resulting from the transformation of previously rural landscapes into peri-urban areas. Two adjacent catchments (∼5 km2) located within the town of Swindon in … This paper investigates changes in storm runoff resulting from the transformation of previously rural landscapes into peri-urban areas. Two adjacent catchments (∼5 km2) located within the town of Swindon in the United Kingdom were monitored during 2011 and 2012 providing continuous records of rainfall, runoff and actual evaporation. One catchment is highly urbanized and the other is a recently developed peri-urban area containing two distinct areas of drainage: one with mixed natural and storm drainage pathways, the other entirely storm drainage. Comparison of observed storm hydrographs showed that the degree of area serviced by storm drainage was a stronger determinant of storm runoff response than either impervious area or development type and that little distinction in hydrological response exists between urban and peri-urban developments of similar impervious cover when no significant hydraulic alteration is present. Historical levels of urbanization and impervious cover were mapped from the 1960s to the 2010s based on digitized historical topographic maps and were combined with a hydrological model to enable backcasting of the present day storm runoff response to that of the catchments in their earlier states. Results from the peri-urban catchment showed an increase in impervious cover from 11% in the 1960s to 44% in 2010s, and introduction of a large-scale storm drainage system in the early 2000s, was accompanied by a 50% reduction in the Muskingum routing parameter k, reducing the characteristic flood duration by over 50% while increasing peak flow by over 400%. Comparisons with changes in storm runoff response in the more urban area suggest that the relative increase in peak flows and reduction in flood duration and response time of a catchment is greatest at low levels of urbanization and that the introduction of storm water conveyance systems significantly increases the flashiness of storm runoff above that attributed to impervious area alone. This study demonstrates that careful consideration is required when using impervious cover data within hydrological models and when designing flood mitigation measures, particularly in peri-urban areas where a widespread loss in pervious surfaces and alteration of drainage pathways can significantly alter the storm runoff response. Recommendations include utilizing more refined urban land use typologies that can better represent physical alteration of hydrological pathways.

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The urban watershed continuum: evolving spatial and temporal dimensions

2012-02-29

Sujay S. Kaushal , Kenneth T. Belt

A distinct urban biogeochemistry?

2006-01-07

Jason P. Kaye , Peter M. Groffman , Nancy B. Grimm +2 more

Bioretention Technology: Overview of Current Practice and Future Needs

2009-02-17

Allen P. Davis , William F. Hunt , Robert G. Traver +1 more

Bioretention, or variations such as bioinfiltration and rain gardens, has become one of the most frequently used storm-water management tools in urbanized watersheds. Incorporating both filtration and infiltration, initial research … Bioretention, or variations such as bioinfiltration and rain gardens, has become one of the most frequently used storm-water management tools in urbanized watersheds. Incorporating both filtration and infiltration, initial research into bioretention has shown that these facilities substantially reduce runoff volumes and peak flows. Low impact development, which has a goal of modifying postdevelopment hydrology to more closely mimic that of predevelopment, is a driver for the use of bioretention in many parts of the country. Research over the past decade has shown that bioretention effluent loads are low for suspended solids, nutrients, hydrocarbons, and heavy metals. Pollutant removal mechanisms include filtration, adsorption, and possibly biological treatment. Limited research suggests that bioretention can effectively manage other pollutants, such as pathogenic bacteria and thermal pollution, as well. Reductions in pollutant load result from the combination of concentration reduction and runoff volume attenuation, linking water quality and hydrologic performance. Nonetheless, many design questions persist for this practice, such as maximum pooling bowl depth, minimum fill media depth, fill media composition and configuration, underdrain configuration, pretreatment options, and vegetation selection. Moreover, the exact nature and impact of bioretention maintenance is still evolving, which will dictate long-term performance and life-cycle costs. Bioretention usage will grow as design guidance matures as a result of continued research and application.

Use of colloid filtration theory in modeling movement of bacteria through a contaminated sandy aquifer

1991-01-01

Ronald W. Harvey , Stephen P. Garabedian

ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleUse of colloid filtration theory in modeling movement of bacteria through a contaminated sandy aquiferRonald W. Harvey and Stephen P. GarabedianCite this: Environ. Sci. Technol. 1991, 25, … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleUse of colloid filtration theory in modeling movement of bacteria through a contaminated sandy aquiferRonald W. Harvey and Stephen P. GarabedianCite this: Environ. Sci. Technol. 1991, 25, 1, 178–185Publication Date (Print):January 1, 1991Publication History Published online1 May 2002Published inissue 1 January 1991https://doi.org/10.1021/es00013a021RIGHTS & PERMISSIONSArticle Views1565Altmetric-Citations414LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InReddit PDF (4 MB) Get e-Alerts Get e-Alerts

Attenuation of groundwater pollution by bank filtration

2002-09-01

Kevin M. Hiscock , Thomas Grischek

The Influence of Urban Density and Drainage Infrastructure on the Concentrations and Loads of Pollutants in Small Streams

2004-05-28

Belinda E. Hatt , Tim D. Fletcher , Christopher J. Walsh +1 more

Coupling biogeochemical cycles in urban environments: ecosystem services, green solutions, and misconceptions

2011-02-01

Diane E. Pataki , Margaret M. Carreiro , Jennifer Cherrier +6 more

Urban green space is purported to offset greenhouse‐gas (GHG) emissions, remove air and water pollutants, cool local climate, and improve public health. To use these services, municipalities have focused efforts … Urban green space is purported to offset greenhouse‐gas (GHG) emissions, remove air and water pollutants, cool local climate, and improve public health. To use these services, municipalities have focused efforts on designing and implementing ecosystem‐services‐based “green infrastructure” in urban environments. In some cases the environmental benefits of this infrastructure have been well documented, but they are often unclear, unquantified, and/or outweighed by potential costs. Quantifying biogeochemical processes in urban green infrastructure can improve our understanding of urban ecosystem services and disservices (negative or unintended consequences) resulting from designed urban green spaces. Here we propose a framework to integrate biogeochemical processes into designing, implementing, and evaluating the net effectiveness of green infrastructure, and provide examples for GHG mitigation, stormwater runoff mitigation, and improvements in air quality and health.

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Impervious Surface Coverage: The Emergence of a Key Environmental Indicator

1996-06-30

Chester Arnold , C. James Gibbons

Abstract Planners concerned with water resource protection in urbanizing areas must deal with the adverse impacts of polluted runoff. Impervious surface coverage is a quantifiable land-use indicator that correlates closely … Abstract Planners concerned with water resource protection in urbanizing areas must deal with the adverse impacts of polluted runoff. Impervious surface coverage is a quantifiable land-use indicator that correlates closely with these impacts. Once the role and distribution of impervious coverage are understood, a wide range of strategies to reduce impervious surfaces and their impacts on water resources can be applied to community planning, site-level planning and design, and land use regulation. These strategies complement many current trends in planning, zoning, and landscape design that go beyond water pollution concerns to address the quality of life in a community.

Evaluating Bioretention Hydrology and Nutrient Removal at Three Field Sites in North Carolina

2006-11-16

William F. Hunt , A. R. Jarrett , J. T. Smith +1 more

Three bioretention field sites in North Carolina were examined for pollutant removal abilities and hydrologic performance. The cells varied by fill media type or drainage configuration. The field studies confirmed … Three bioretention field sites in North Carolina were examined for pollutant removal abilities and hydrologic performance. The cells varied by fill media type or drainage configuration. The field studies confirmed high annual total nitrogen mass removal rates at two conventionally drained bioretention cells (40% reduction each). Nitrate-nitrogen mass removal rates varied between 75 and 13%, and calculated annual mass removal of zinc, copper, and lead from one Greensboro cell were 98, 99, and 81%, respectively. All high mass removal rates were due to a substantial decrease in outflow volume. The ratio of volume of water leaving the bioretention cell versus that which entered the cell varied from 0.07 (summer) to 0.54 (winter). There was a significant (p<0.05) change in the ratio of outflow volume to inflow volume when comparing warm seasons to winter. Cells using a fill soil media with a lower phosphorus index (P-index), Chapel Hill cell C1 and Greensboro cell G1, had much higher phosphorus removal than Greensboro cell G2, which used a high P-index fill media. Fill media selection is critical for total phosphorus removal, as fill media with a low P-index and relatively high CEC appear to remove phosphorus much more readily.

The urban stream syndrome: current knowledge and the search for a cure

2005-09-01

Christopher J. Walsh , Allison H. Roy , Jack W. Feminella +3 more

The term “urban stream syndrome” describes the consistently observed ecological degradation of streams draining urban land. This paper reviews recent literature to describe symptoms of the syndrome, explores mechanisms driving … The term “urban stream syndrome” describes the consistently observed ecological degradation of streams draining urban land. This paper reviews recent literature to describe symptoms of the syndrome, explores mechanisms driving the syndrome, and identifies appropriate goals and methods for ecological restoration of urban streams. Symptoms of the urban stream syndrome include a flashier hydrograph, elevated concentrations of nutrients and contaminants, altered channel morphology, and reduced biotic richness, with increased dominance of tolerant species. More research is needed before generalizations can be made about urban effects on stream ecosystem processes, but reduced nutrient uptake has been consistently reported. The mechanisms driving the syndrome are complex and interactive, but most impacts can be ascribed to a few major large-scale sources, primarily urban stormwater runoff delivered to streams by hydraulically efficient drainage systems. Other stressors, such as combined or sanitary sewer overflows, wastewater treatment plant effluents, and legacy pollutants (long-lived pollutants from earlier land uses) can obscure the effects of stormwater runoff. Most research on urban impacts to streams has concentrated on correlations between instream ecological metrics and total catchment imperviousness. Recent research shows that some of the variance in such relationships can be explained by the distance between the stream reach and urban land, or by the hydraulic efficiency of stormwater drainage. The mechanisms behind such patterns require experimentation at the catchment scale to identify the best management approaches to conservation and restoration of streams in urban catchments. Remediation of stormwater impacts is most likely to be achieved through widespread application of innovative approaches to drainage design. Because humans dominate urban ecosystems, research on urban stream ecology will require a broadening of stream ecological research to integrate with social, behavioral, and economic research.

Impediments and Solutions to Sustainable, Watershed-Scale Urban Stormwater Management: Lessons from Australia and the United States

2008-04-29

Allison H. Roy , Seth J. Wenger , Tim D. Fletcher +5 more

Emerging solutions to the water challenges of an urbanizing world

2016-05-20

Tove A. Larsen , Sabine Hoffmann , Christoph Lüthi +2 more

The top priorities for urban water sustainability include the provision of safe drinking water, wastewater handling for public health, and protection against flooding. However, rapidly aging infrastructure, population growth, and … The top priorities for urban water sustainability include the provision of safe drinking water, wastewater handling for public health, and protection against flooding. However, rapidly aging infrastructure, population growth, and increasing urbanization call into question current urban water management strategies, especially in the fast-growing urban areas in Asia and Africa. We review innovative approaches in urban water management with the potential to provide locally adapted, resource-efficient alternative solutions. Promising examples include new concepts for stormwater drainage, increased water productivity, distributed or on-site treatment of wastewater, source separation of human waste, and institutional and organizational reforms. We conclude that there is an urgent need for major transdisciplinary efforts in research, policy, and practice to develop alternatives with implications for cities and aquatic ecosystems alike.

Impacts of urbanisation on hydrological and water quality dynamics, and urban water management: a review

2015-12-04

Scott J. McGrane

As urban space continues to expand to accommodate a growing global population, there remains a real need to quantify and qualify the impacts of urban space on natural processes. The … As urban space continues to expand to accommodate a growing global population, there remains a real need to quantify and qualify the impacts of urban space on natural processes. The expansion of global urban areas has resulted in marked alterations to natural processes, environmental quality and natural resource consumption. The urban landscape influences infiltration and evapotranspiration, complicating our capacity to quantify their dynamics across a heterogeneous landscape at contrasting scales. Impervious surfaces exacerbate runoff processes, whereas runoff from pervious areas remains uncertain owing to variable infiltration dynamics. Increasingly, the link between the natural hydrological cycle and engineered water cycle has been made, realising the contributions from leaky infrastructure to recharge and runoff rates. Urban landscapes are host to a suite of contaminants that impact on water quality, where novel contaminants continue to pose new challenges to monitoring and treatment regimes. This review seeks to assess the major advances and remaining challenges that remain within the growing field of urban hydrology.Editor M.C. Acreman; Associate editor E. Rozos

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Urban rainwater harvesting systems: Research, implementation and future perspectives

2017-03-02

Alberto Campisano , David Butler , Sarah Ward +7 more

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The role of trees in urban stormwater management

2017-03-10

Adam Berland , Sheri A. Shiflett , William D. Shuster +4 more

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Performance and implementation of low impact development – A review

2017-07-27

Kyle Eckart , Zach McPhee , Tirupati Bolisetti

“Sponge City” in China—A breakthrough of planning and flood risk management in the urban context

2018-03-18

Faith Ka Shun Chan , James Griffiths , David Higgitt +5 more

The pollution conveyed by urban runoff: A review of sources

2019-12-18

Alexandra Müller , Heléne Österlund , Jiří Maršálek +1 more

Urban stormwater and snowmelt pollution contributes significantly to the deterioration of surface waters quality in many locations. Consequently, the sources of such pollution have been studied for the past 50 … Urban stormwater and snowmelt pollution contributes significantly to the deterioration of surface waters quality in many locations. Consequently, the sources of such pollution have been studied for the past 50 years, with the vehicular transportation sector and the atmospheric deposition identified early as the major pollution sources. In search for mitigation of this pollution, source controls, besides other measures, were recognised as effective pollution mitigation tools, whose successful implementation requires a good knowledge of pollution sources. Even though great research efforts have been exerted to document specific sources of urban runoff pollution, or specific groups of pollutants present in urban runoff, a comprehensive overview of all known contributing sources is still missing. This review contributes to closing this gap by compiling findings of previous research and critically synthesizing the current knowledge of various stormwater pollution sources. As the emphasis is placed on the sources, the related issues of implications for urban surface water quality and possible source controls for individual sources are touched upon just briefly, where required. The review showed that the atmospheric deposition, vehicular transportation-related activities and metallic building envelopes continue to be among the major pollution sources, which have been studied in a far greater detail than other sources. Furthermore, it was noted that because of the rapid advances in clean manufacturing and pollution control technologies, a large part of the body of data on stormwater quality available in the literature should be considered as historical data, which may no longer describe well the current conditions. Progressing historical data obsolescence, combined with continuing releases of new materials and chemicals, and, in some cases of new substances of potential concern, into the environment, suggests that the identification of important stormwater runoff/snowmelt pollution sources, and the associated pollutants, has been and will remain to be a work in progress.

Streams in the Urban Landscape

2001-11-01

Michael J. Paul , Judy L. Meyer

▪ Abstract The world's population is concentrated in urban areas. This change in demography has brought landscape transformations that have a number of documented effects on stream ecosystems. The most … ▪ Abstract The world's population is concentrated in urban areas. This change in demography has brought landscape transformations that have a number of documented effects on stream ecosystems. The most consistent and pervasive effect is an increase in impervious surface cover within urban catchments, which alters the hydrology and geomorphology of streams. This results in predictable changes in stream habitat. In addition to imperviousness, runoff from urbanized surfaces as well as municipal and industrial discharges result in increased loading of nutrients, metals, pesticides, and other contaminants to streams. These changes result in consistent declines in the richness of algal, invertebrate, and fish communities in urban streams. Although understudied in urban streams, ecosystem processes are also affected by urbanization. Urban streams represent opportunities for ecologists interested in studying disturbance and contributing to more effective landscape management.

Water pollution aspects of street surface contaminants.

1974-03-01

Sartor Jd , Boyd Gb , Agardy Fj

MATERIALS WHICH COMMONLY RESIDE ON STREET SURFACES HAVE BEEN FOUND TO CONTRIBUTE SUBSTANTIALLY TO URBAN POLLUTION WHEN WASHED INTO RECEIVING WATERS BY STORM RUNOFF. CALCULATIONS BASED ON A HYPOTHETICAL BUT … MATERIALS WHICH COMMONLY RESIDE ON STREET SURFACES HAVE BEEN FOUND TO CONTRIBUTE SUBSTANTIALLY TO URBAN POLLUTION WHEN WASHED INTO RECEIVING WATERS BY STORM RUNOFF. CALCULATIONS BASED ON A HYPOTHETICAL BUT TYPICAL U. S. CITY INDICATED THAT THE RUNOFF FROM THE FIRST HOUR OF A MODERATE-TO-HEAVY STORM WOULD CONTRIBUTE CONSIDERABLY MORE POLLUTIONAL LOAD THAN WOULD THE SAME CITY'S SANITARY SEWAGE DURING THE SAME PERIOD OF TIME. THE STUDY PROVIDES A BASIS FOR EVALUATING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS SOURCE OF WATER POLLUTION AND PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR COMMUNITIES HAVING A BROAD RANGE OF SIZES, GEOGRAPHICAL LOCALES, AND PUBLIC WORKS PRACTICES. INFORMATION WAS DEVELOPED FOR MAJOR LAND-USE AREAS WITHIN THE CITIES. THE ANALYSIS OF THE RUNOFF IS ALSO REPORTED. /AUTHOR/

Design and Implementation of an Integrated Rainwater Harvesting and Constructed Wetland System at Mewar University: A Multi-Phase Engineering Framework

2025-06-25

M. Jain | International Journal for Research in Applied Science and Engineering Technology

Water security has emerged as a critical environmental and socio-economic concern in India, particularly in semi-arid regions such as southern Rajasthan. Educational institutions, being high water consumers with large impervious … Water security has emerged as a critical environmental and socio-economic concern in India, particularly in semi-arid regions such as southern Rajasthan. Educational institutions, being high water consumers with large impervious surfaces, offer immense potential for localized water sustainability solutions. This study investigates the technical, environmental, and economic feasibility of integrating Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) with Constructed Wetlands (CW) for decentralized greywater treatment within the Mewar University campus. A comprehensive methodology was adopted involving site topography analysis, rainfall-runoff modeling, rooftop area estimation, and seasonal demand-yield balance using AutoCAD and GIS-based hydrological tools. The RWH system was designed to capture an estimated 12.5 million liters annually, supported by ground recharge pits and storage tanks. Parallelly, a horizontal subsurface flow CW system was engineered based on hydraulic retention time (HRT), organic loading rates, and plant species selection to treat approximately 20 KLD of greywater. Performance simulations projected 85–90% removal efficiency for BOD, COD, and suspended solids. Field data, satellite imagery, and institutional water audits were integrated to perform a cost–benefit analysis. The results indicate an expected operational payback within 4.7 years, reducing groundwater extraction by 60% and ensuring over 40% reuse of treated water for horticulture and flushing. Ecological assessments suggest an improvement in local biodiversity and microclimate regulation around the CW site. This study demonstrates a scalable model for campus-level water resilience that aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Jal Shakti Abhiyan, and India’s climate adaptation policies. The integrated RWH–CW system not only conserves water but also promotes environmental stewardship and experiential learning within the academic ecosystem.

Nomogram-Based Rainwater Harvesting Design for a Sustainable Residential Water Supply

2025-06-24

Roberto Magini , Maria Valenti Ben Moussa , Davide Luciano De Luca | Sustainability

Water scarcity is a critical issue exacerbated by climate change, urbanization, and population growth, particularly in regions with insufficient water infrastructure. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems offer a sustainable solution to … Water scarcity is a critical issue exacerbated by climate change, urbanization, and population growth, particularly in regions with insufficient water infrastructure. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems offer a sustainable solution to mitigate water shortages by collecting and storing rainwater for non-potable uses. This study focuses on the design, efficiency, and reliability of RWH systems in residential environments, with an emphasis on optimizing the sizing of storage volumes and collection areas. Using a behavioural simulation model, we generate nomograms that facilitate the design of RWH systems by analyzing the interactions among storage capacity, collection area, rainfall patterns, and water demand. Specifically, this paper evaluates the effectiveness of RWH systems through efficiency and reliability metrics such as water savings, mains reliance, overflow discharge, and system reliability. The proposed procedure integrates stochastic rainfall and water demand data, including a detailed analysis of toilet usage, in order to simulate the performance of RWH systems across different time scales. Case studies in Italy and Denmark are used to assess the influence of climatic differences on system performance. The findings provide a comprehensive methodology for RWH system design, and offer valuable insights into improving a sustainable water management strategy.

Potential factors affecting watershed deterioration: A critical review

2025-06-24

Md. Rakibul Hassan , Md Firoz Khan , Mufti Mahmud +1 more | Water Air & Soil Pollution

AVALIAÇÃO DE SISTEMA DE DRENAGEM URBANA

2025-06-24

Anderson Ribeiro , Lívia de Cássia Silva , Priscilla Barbosa Ferreira Soares +1 more | Revista fisio&terapia.

The evaluation of urban drainage systems is essential to address the challenges of stormwater in contemporary cities. Rapid urban growth and climate change increase the risk of flooding and pollution. … The evaluation of urban drainage systems is essential to address the challenges of stormwater in contemporary cities. Rapid urban growth and climate change increase the risk of flooding and pollution. Recent studies emphasize the importance of methodologies that consider the response capacity of drainage systems, as seen in the research by Monteiro and Mendes (2020), and local assessments proposed by Farias et al. (2022). Integrated modeling, highlighted by Mesquita et al. (2020), allows for the monitoring of pollutant loads, contributing to mitigation solutions. Furthermore, the development of performance indicators, as discussed by Cavalcanti Filho et al. (2017), promotes transparency and effectiveness in urban drainage management. Thus, evaluating these systems becomes an essential tool for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of cities facing environmental challenges.

Blue–Green Infrastructure Effectiveness for Urban Stormwater Management: A Multi-Scale Residential Case Study

2025-06-24

Joanna Boguniewicz-Zabłocka , Ewelina Łukasiewicz | Land

Climate change, urbanization, and extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and drought present major challenges for urban water management. This paper proposes a framework to evaluate the effectiveness of … Climate change, urbanization, and extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and drought present major challenges for urban water management. This paper proposes a framework to evaluate the effectiveness of blue–green infrastructure (BGI) as a sustainable stormwater management solution across different residential development scales. Two contrasting case studies are examined: a small terraced housing catchment and a large housing estate. A multi-criteria analysis (MCA) supports a structured comparison of BGI effectiveness, while a complementary SWOT analysis informs strategic implementation approaches. The results demonstrate the practical applicability of the framework and underscore that successful stormwater management requires both innovative technologies and reform in urban planning governance. This study offers valuable insights into building climate-resilient cities.

A Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) Planning Framework for Catchment-Scale Urban Pluvial Flood Mitigation Targets

2025-06-23

W. Wu , Behzad Jamali , Lucy Marshall +2 more | Water Research

Hmodelling the adoption of combined sewer overflow surveillance in Switzerland

2025-06-23

Samuel Friedemann Derwort , Liliane Manny , Juan Pablo Carbajal +2 more | Water Science & Technology

ABSTRACT During wet weather, combined sewer overflows (CSOs) spill untreated wastewater to hydraulically protect wastewater treatment plants. Interestingly, in Switzerland, the impact of these discharges on surface water quality remains … ABSTRACT During wet weather, combined sewer overflows (CSOs) spill untreated wastewater to hydraulically protect wastewater treatment plants. Interestingly, in Switzerland, the impact of these discharges on surface water quality remains unclear due to limited monitoring of CSO spills. Although affordable sensors and regular data review could address this, it is unclear why most wastewater associations seldom assess this data, highlighting political and organisational challenges within wastewater associations and their stakeholder networks rather than technical ones. This study explores different policy instruments to promote sensor adoption in CSOs, e.g. for event duration monitoring, using an agent-based model (ABM). The stakeholders' behaviour is modelled through the Theory of Planned Behaviour and the Bounded Confidence Model. We developed a prototype ABM, testing three policy instruments as scenarios: (i) professional events, (ii) mandatory sensor installation, and (iii) improved sensor technology. Our findings suggest that it is most effective to make sensor installation mandatory. However, quantitative results of the ABM must be taken with care, due to sparse data in regard to uncertainties, as emphasized by sensitivity analysis. Despite this, the process of building the model was considered beneficial, as it enhanced the understanding of the socio-technical system.

A novel approach to understanding the compaction energy effect on the pore network and fatigue resistance of pervious concrete

2025-06-23

Yanchen Oinam , Hyeong-Ki Kim , Sukhoon Pyo | International Journal of Pavement Engineering

A framework for optimization and assessment of long-term urban stormwater management scenarios under climate change and performance challenges

2025-06-23

Ming Liu , Zhaoli Wang , Mo Wang +4 more | Journal of Environmental Management

Adaptation of Urban Drainage Networks to Climate Change for Sustainable Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Development

2025-06-21

Riska Ayu Febriana , Jiun Hor Low , Izni Zahidi +1 more | Water Resources Management

Abstract Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) systems lead to flood risks by altering land use and increasing impermeable surfaces. Existing drainage systems often fail to address the challenges of climate change, … Abstract Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) systems lead to flood risks by altering land use and increasing impermeable surfaces. Existing drainage systems often fail to address the challenges of climate change, urban flooding, and sedimentation. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a sustainable drainage system (SuDS) designed for the UPM-Serdang MRT station in Malaysia, compared to pre- and post-MRT drainage systems. Hydrodynamic modelling was employed to simulate flood depth, extent, and sedimentation for several scenarios. The SuDS, integrating permeable pavement and bioretention facilities, achieved a flood risk score of 14%, significantly outperforming post-MRT (33%) and pre-MRT (54%) systems. It yielded a benefit–cost ratio of 3.03, surpassing the post-MRT (1.01) and pre-MRT (0.31) designs. The findings demonstrate how SuDS can mitigate floods up to a 200-year return period and reduce sedimentation. This study addresses the gap in MRT drainage research by introducing a novel framework that integrates hydrodynamic modeling, with engineering assessment and benefit–cost analysis to support sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructure design.

Bacterial diversity and health hazards associated with resuspended road matter transported by runoff into storm and combined sewers

2025-06-20

Angélique Dominguez-Lage , Adrien C. Pozzi , Rayan Bouchali +6 more | Water Science & Technology

ABSTRACT Road surfaces accumulate anthropogenized sediments contaminated by animal waste, soil particles, and atmospheric deposits, raising hygienic concerns. During rainfall events, these sediments can be resuspended and transported via runoff … ABSTRACT Road surfaces accumulate anthropogenized sediments contaminated by animal waste, soil particles, and atmospheric deposits, raising hygienic concerns. During rainfall events, these sediments can be resuspended and transported via runoff into storm and combined sewers. This study investigated the bacterial diversity and potential health hazards associated with resuspended road-deposited matter in a peri-urban area. Quantitative PCR and metabarcoding analyses of 16S rRNA and tpm genes were performed to (i) identify the sources of bacterial taxa colonizing road surfaces, (ii) define core and specific taxa and assess their capacity to survive in downstream sewer environments, and (iii) explore their functional potential. Several taxa were linked to human and animal sources, with notable occurrences of bacterial pathogen DNA signatures. Amplicon sequence variant profiling revealed that resuspended road surface communities were more similar to those in storm sewage than in combined sewage. Functional annotation suggested that road surface taxa had enhanced pollutant degradation capabilities and posed significant health hazards. Indicator taxa were identified to support the hygienic assessment of road-deposited sediments. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring road runoff as a vector of microbial contaminants in urban water systems.

Low-carbon solutions for water infiltration in urban buildings under climate change

2025-06-20

Jianzhuang Xiao , Caihua Yu , Bing Xia +4 more | Nature Cities

Statistical techniques in correlation analysis of stormwater pollutants for improved management of constructed wetlands in urban cities

2025-06-20

Fujia Yang , Shirley Gato-Trinidad , Iqbal Hossain | Environmental Monitoring and Assessment

Tree Infiltration Trenches in the City of Leipzig—Experiences from Four Years of Operation

2025-06-20

Lucie Moeller , Katy Bernhard , Sabine Kruckow +5 more | Land

Increasing climate change requires cities to adapt to changing weather conditions. New elements for decentralized stormwater management must be installed to protect the sewer system from overloading during heavy rainfall … Increasing climate change requires cities to adapt to changing weather conditions. New elements for decentralized stormwater management must be installed to protect the sewer system from overloading during heavy rainfall events and to keep water in the city for irrigation use. A pilot project was implemented in Leipzig in 2020, in which infiltration tree trench systems with three different designs were installed and equipped with measuring technology during a road renovation project. The catchment areas of these three tree trenches are between 215 and 300 m² each. In two of the systems, water retention was included to supply the tree with water during drought periods. The retention elements are sealed with clay in tree trench TT1 and bentonite in tree trench TT3. For tree trench TT2, no retention capacity was provided. This article presents the design, construction, and scientific monitoring of the three tree infiltration trenches. The conclusions after four years of operation from the perspective of two departments of the City of Leipzig are summarized. The tree trench TT1 with the clay pan for water storage shows the best performance in terms of water retention and tree fitness. For the next generation of such infiltration systems, improvements in the design of the street runoff inlets and the surface of the tree trench system’s interior are discussed.

A Framework to Evaluate the Performance of Urban Rainwater Harvesting Systems Considering Water and Sanitation Utility Perspectives under Deep Uncertainties

2025-06-20

Gabriela Cristina Ribeiro Pacheco , Conceição de Maria Albuquerque Alves | Water Resources Management

Analysis of the implementation of green-blue infrastructure for optimising recharge in coastal aquifers

2025-06-20

Leandro Rodrigues Capítulo , Silvina Carretero , Samanta M. Anguiano +2 more | Groundwater for Sustainable Development

Rainwater management and associated health risks: case study on the Welfengarten campus of the Leibniz University of Hannover, Germany

2025-06-20

Estefania Carpio-Vallejo , Urda Düker , R. Nogueira | Frontiers in Water

In the face of growing climate change challenges and increasing uncertainty over water availability, roof-harvested rainwater emerges as a promising alternative source in urban settings. At the Welfengarten campus, rainwater … In the face of growing climate change challenges and increasing uncertainty over water availability, roof-harvested rainwater emerges as a promising alternative source in urban settings. At the Welfengarten campus, rainwater from the main building's roof feeds a pond that overflows into a park. However, concerns arise about potential waterborne diseases affecting children interacting with the pond. This study assessed the microbiological water quality of the urban pond and the associated health risks. Bi-monthly water sampling was conducted in 2020 and 2021, field observations documented interactions with the pond, and a microbial risk assessment quantified health risks from recreational exposure, addressing a critical gap in urban water safety research. Microbial analysis showed Total coliforms (4.41 × 10 1 to 2.42 × 10 3 MPN/100 mL), E. coli (5.20 × 10 0 to 4.61 × 10 2 MPN/100 mL), Enterococci (1.60 × 10 1 to 1.73 × 10 3 MPN/100 mL), Salmonella spp. (2.00 × 10 2 to 2.10 × 10 4 CFU/100 mL) and P. aeruginosa (4.00 × 10 0 to 6.00 × 10 3 MPN/100 mL). QMRA results showed maximum daily infection probabilities of 3.18 × 10 −1 for Enterococci and 2.48 × 10 −1 for Salmonella spp., exceeding the USEPA benchmark (3.60 × 10 −2 ), while other bacteria remained below it. Given the lack of water quality guidelines for these environments, regular monitoring, particularly during summer, is recommended to safeguard public health and guide future water management policies.

Clay sediment adhesion-dominated clogging and its recovery under infiltration washing in statically compacted pervious concrete

2025-06-19

Yu Ding , Yapei Xia , Lin Guo +4 more | Journal of Hydrology

Heavy rainfall and New Orleans neutral ground parking decisions

2025-06-18

Anna K. Sitzman , Vincent M. Brown , Barry D. Keim +1 more | Urban Water Journal

Integrating life cycle assessment into green infrastructure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of urban sustainability strategies

2025-06-18

Negin Bani Khalifi , Dafni Despoina Avgoustaki , Thomas Bartzanas | Frontiers in Sustainable Cities

Green infrastructure (GI) is increasingly vital for cities addressing environmental challenges, climate change, and sustainability through nature-based solutions. However, the inconsistent use of life cycle assessment (LCA) methods—including variations in … Green infrastructure (GI) is increasingly vital for cities addressing environmental challenges, climate change, and sustainability through nature-based solutions. However, the inconsistent use of life cycle assessment (LCA) methods—including variations in impact categories, data collection methods, system boundaries, and functional units—hinders effective policymaking and comparison among projects. This study conducted a systematic review and semi-quantitative meta-analysis, following PRISMA guidelines. Out of 334 publications (2014–2024) identified from Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, 40 studies met the inclusion criteria. Analysis included critical sustainability indicators: carbon emissions, water footprint, energy use, land-use changes, and air pollution. Traditional LCA was most commonly applied, yet integration with economic (life cycle costing, LCC) and social dimensions (social LCA, S-LCA) remained limited. Meta-analysis indicated a slight positive correlation between standard LCA and water footprint (0.27) but a negative correlation with energy consumption (−0.18), suggesting trade-offs between water management and energy efficiency. Economic assessments (LCC) were moderately linked to land-use changes (0.15), reflecting economic considerations in GI projects. Social assessments (S-LCA) correlated positively with air pollution (0.20), highlighting potential conflicts between social and environmental objectives. Although GI significantly contributes to urban sustainability, the lack of standardized LCA methods limits comparative analyses and practical policy development. Standardizing methodologies, unifying impact assessments, integrating environmental, economic, and social evaluations, and developing financial incentives and advanced technological tools like artificial intelligence are critical steps forward. Future research should prioritize refining LCA accuracy, comprehensive lifecycle cost–benefit integration, and multi-dimensional sustainability analyses to better inform urban resilience policies.

A comprehensive overview of the ionic composition of rainwater across Latin America

2025-06-18

Omar Ramírez , Natali Ladino-Quintero , Oscar Bernal +1 more | Environmental Reviews

Wet atmospheric deposition, primarily through rainfall, plays a crucial role in removing atmospheric pollutants, particularly water-soluble particles and dissolved gases, thereby contributing to atmospheric cleansing. This review article examines the … Wet atmospheric deposition, primarily through rainfall, plays a crucial role in removing atmospheric pollutants, particularly water-soluble particles and dissolved gases, thereby contributing to atmospheric cleansing. This review article examines the ionic composition of rainwater in Latin America, based on scientific studies retrieved from the Web of Science and Scopus databases. The findings reveal that anthropogenic sources of ionic compounds in rainwater include fossil fuel combustion, fertilizer application, vehicular emissions, and industrial activities, which primarily contribute to acidifying compounds. In contrast, neutralizing compounds (e.g., Ca2+ and Mg2+) originate from both human activities and natural sources, such as marine aerosols and dust resuspension. Elevated concentrations of acidifying compounds have been documented in urban and industrial areas, whereas rural regions predominantly exhibit neutralizing ions. In certain countries, such as Brazil and Costa Rica, reductions in the sulfur content of fuels have led to trends of rainwater neutralization. The ratios of ionic compounds (e.g., SO42-/NO3- and NH4+/NO3-) and rainwater pH were analyzed to identify emission sources and regional patterns, revealing geographical, seasonal, and local influences on emissions. However, documentation on the impacts of rainwater acidification in Latin America remains limited, with most studies focusing on Brazil. Mexico, Argentina, and Brazil have been identified as the most productive countries in this research area. Nevertheless, studies on the ionic composition of rainwater in Latin America remain scarce and have declined over the past five years. This decline is concerning given the region’s rich biodiversity, which may be adversely affected by rainwater acidification.

Phase Transitions in Retrofitting Urban Drainage Systems: A Computational Framework for Adaptation-Sustainability Trade-offs

2025-06-18

Qiyu Dong , Shu Lin , Shunwen Bai +2 more | Water Research

Metal treatment in stormwater bioretention systems with high hydraulic conductivity – Designed for more efficient runoff volume capture and cold climates

2025-06-17

Robert Furén , Katharina Lange , Ali Beryani +2 more | Journal of Contaminant Hydrology

Assessment of Harvested Rainwater Quality and Surrogate Parameter Development for Drinking Water Provision in Rural Sri Lanka

2025-06-17

Qingke Yuan , Guanxin Yao , Wenbin Liu +4 more | Journal of environmental chemical engineering

Optimal allocation of urban water resources under dual constraints of carbon emissions and sponge city construction: models and applications

2025-06-16

Wei Li , Che Yinglong , Liu Jian-lin +6 more | Water Reuse

ABSTRACT Water resources are essential for human survival, economic development, and ecological balance. However, they are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in urban production and utilization. Despite this, research … ABSTRACT Water resources are essential for human survival, economic development, and ecological balance. However, they are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in urban production and utilization. Despite this, research on integrating carbon reduction objectives into water resource allocation remains limited. This paper constructs a model for optimal allocation of urban water resources including unconventional water resources based on carbon emissions, and studies it in Pingliang City as an example, using NSGA-III algorithms to solve its allocation scheme. The results show that compared with the traditional configuration scheme, the proposed carbon emission reduction-based allocation model achieves cumulative carbon emission reductions of 153,000 and 267,000 metric tons for the planning period 2025–2040. Additionally, the cumulative economy can be obtained in 2025–2040 is 934,800–9,482,900 yuan and 163,141,000–16,548,700 yuan, respectively. This study can help to promote the rational utilization of urban water resources and the coordinated development of the economy, society, and environment in China, and provides a scientific basis for the sustainable development policy of water resources, which is important for realizing the goal of ‘double carbon’ in China.

Hydrophilic Organic Compound Migration in Biochar-Amended Stormwater Filters with Dynamic Conditions and Varied Background Dissolved Organic Carbon Contents

2025-06-13

James Conrad Pritchard , Yeo‐Myoung Cho , Stephanie Spahr +1 more | Environmental Science & Technology

Urban stormwater runoff carries dissolved, hydrophilic urban pollutants into surface waters and aquifers, impairing human and aquatic health and threatening beneficial stormwater uses, such as augmentation of drinking water supplies. … Urban stormwater runoff carries dissolved, hydrophilic urban pollutants into surface waters and aquifers, impairing human and aquatic health and threatening beneficial stormwater uses, such as augmentation of drinking water supplies. Black carbon-amended stormwater filters have been shown to remove dissolved metal and organic contaminants from urban stormwater runoff, and 1-dimensional intraparticle pore diffusion limited-sorption models have been validated for predicting filter performance under constant flow and influent conditions. However, as stormwater runoff is quite variable, it is important to understand how dynamic conditions and varied background dissolved organic carbon (DOC) affect the filter performance. This study investigates how dynamic flow and influent contaminant loading and variable background DOC conditions affect compound migration and transport modeling in biochar-amended stormwater filters through a series of four column experiments. Dynamic flow and influent contaminant loading conditions substantially affect contaminant migration, which is predicted by using a previously validated transport model with previously determined sorption and apparent intraparticle tortuosity parameters. Increased background DOC (from 3 mg C L-1 to 18 mg C L-1) accelerated contaminant migration. Fitting the transport model to observed breakthrough curves and equilibrium batch isotherm experiments reveals that increasing the DOC increases the intraparticle diffusion hindrance, reduces the sorption capacity of the carbon, and increases the linearity of the isotherms. Kinetic limitations of contaminant removal are shown to be exaggerated at higher DOC conditions by quantifying the impacts of DOC and contact time on filter performance. This study provides confidence in the robustness of the contaminant transport model predictions for simulating dynamic conditions and offers insight into the impact of dynamic conditions and background DOC on contaminant removal in biochar-amended stormwater filters.

Valorization of Historical Urban Spaces for Managed Aquifer Recharge as a Tool to Support Sustainable Urban Development in Warsaw, Poland

2025-06-13

Joanna Trzeciak , Sebastian Zabłocki | Urban Science

In the context of progressing climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, there is a growing need for effective strategies to mitigate their impacts. One such strategy … In the context of progressing climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, there is a growing need for effective strategies to mitigate their impacts. One such strategy involves the implementation of tools aimed at sustainable rainfall management at the site of precipitation. This study focuses on assessing the state of the water environment as a prerequisite for introducing sustainable Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) practices in urban areas. The research was conducted in the historic district of Warsaw, Poland. A comprehensive methodological approach was employed, including field and laboratory measurements of soil moisture and electrical conductivity (EC), vadose zone hydraulic conductivity, spring discharge rates, and analytical calculations based on climatic data. These were supplemented by groundwater flow modeling to estimate infiltration rates. The study showed that the infiltration rate in the aquifer is low—only 4.4% of the average annual precipitation. This is primarily due to limited green space coverage and high surface runoff, as well as high potential evaporation rates and low soil permeability in the vadose zone. A positive water balance and infiltration were observed only in December and January, as indicated by increased soil moisture and decreased EC values. A multi-criteria spatial analysis identified priority zones for the installation of retention infrastructure aimed at enhancing effective infiltration and improving the urban water balance. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions in urban water management to support climate resilience and sustainable development goals.

Modelagem de técnicas compensatórias na bacia do Córrego Engenho Nogueira (Belo Horizonte, MG) sob a ótica do novo plano diretor

2025-06-12

Tiago Vieira da Silva , M. F. Pereira , Aline de Araújo Nunes +3 more | Cadernos Técnicos Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental

A urbanização acelerada e desordenada tem causado aumento da impermeabilização do solo e do escoamento superficial, intensificando cheias urbanas. Políticas urbanas desempenham papel crucial na mitigação desses impactos. Belo Horizonte … A urbanização acelerada e desordenada tem causado aumento da impermeabilização do solo e do escoamento superficial, intensificando cheias urbanas. Políticas urbanas desempenham papel crucial na mitigação desses impactos. Belo Horizonte (MG), que enfrenta frequentes inundações, revisou seu plano diretor pela Lei nº 11.181/2019. O presente estudo objetivou a avaliação dos efeitos do uso do solo na bacia do Córrego Engenho Nogueira, considerando os planos diretores de 1996 e 2019, e investigou a redução do escoamento superficial com técnicas compensatórias, como pavimento permeável e telhados verdes. Os resultados apontaram para aumento de 8 e 9% nas vazões de pico do cenário de 1996 para o de 2019, para tempos de retorno de 10 e 50 anos, respectivamente. A aplicação das técnicas compensatórias reduziu as vazões em 9%, aproximando-as dos valores de 1996, com tempo de pico constante de 45 minutos. Esses achados destacam a eficácia dessas soluções na mitigação de impactos da urbanização, embora fatores locais influenciem os resultados. O plano diretor de 2019 trouxe avanços nas diretrizes de drenagem urbana, mas o crescimento urbano e a impermeabilização ainda representam desafios, demandando maior integração entre planejamento e sustentabilidade, em conformidade com os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável da Agenda 2030.

Characterisation of First Flush for Rainwater Harvesting Purposes in Buildings

2025-06-12

Jéssica Kuntz Maykot , Igor Catão Martins Vaz , Enedir Ghisi | Water

The objective of this research was to assess the first flush of rainwater harvested from a fibre–cement roof in southern Brazil. Runoff samples were collected for quantifying pH, total suspended … The objective of this research was to assess the first flush of rainwater harvested from a fibre–cement roof in southern Brazil. Runoff samples were collected for quantifying pH, total suspended solids, turbidity, conductivity, apparent colour, total coliforms, and Escherichia coli. Statistical methods were employed to describe the data, establish correlations between variables, and assess if the antecedent dry weather periods and rainfall intensity affected water quality. The qualitative characterisation of the first flush was performed using principal component analysis and simple regression analyses. The results show that rainwater runoff can be highly contaminated. Hypothesis tests showed that initial rainfall intensity and antecedent dry weather periods affect the quality of the first flush. Principal component analysis suggested that the most significant variables to characterise the first flush were turbidity and apparent colour. Using first-flush diverters in rainwater harvesting systems does not ensure E. coli removal, but it may reduce the risk of users’ contamination. Practical implications include discussions on the suggested first flush and the consequential impact on the quantity and quality of rainwater harvested. Future studies may consider using the method used in this research to develop guidelines based on more samples across the country. As novelty, one includes a statistically robust qualitative study in a region that lacks research on the quantification and quality of first flush. Such assessment helps to build up Brazilian data for a better understanding of first flush management in rainwater harvesting.

Pipeline misconnections in separated sewer systems worsen urban river ecological status through stormwater discharge

2025-06-04

Tian Ouyang , Jianchao Liu , Guanghua Lu +4 more | Journal of Environmental Management

Development of a Sustainable Water Supply through Combined Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater System

2025-06-02

Noorul Iqhlima Najwa Ismail , Siti Safirah Rashid , Hamizah Mokhtar +2 more | Malaysian Journal of Science and Advanced Technology

Increased population often leads to water supply deficit as the demand for water rises. In water resource, rainwater harvesting (RWH) holds great potential for providing a sustainable water supply in … Increased population often leads to water supply deficit as the demand for water rises. In water resource, rainwater harvesting (RWH) holds great potential for providing a sustainable water supply in Malaysia, while groundwater serves as an alternative water source especially in limited surface water places. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of sustainable water supply system that combines RWH and groundwater. The first objective is to design an integrated RWH and groundwater extraction to meet the required water demand. The second objective is to evaluate the groundwater quality index on the groundwater based on Malaysia's National Water Quality Standards. This study was conducted at UiTM Kampus Jengka, Pahang. The first step of the methodology involves evaluating the efficiency of the rainwater harvesting system by comparing monthly rainfall from April to September 2024 against the volume of harvested rainwater. In general, volume of shortfall in rainwater supply in UiTM Jengka is about 5m3 per month. In this study, volume of monthly harvested rainwater ranges from 2.74m3 to 4.25m3. The second step was to identify volume of water needed for landscaping purposes around campus of UiTM Jengka which is about 6.3m3 per month. Finally, the water quality index was assessed through laboratory testing of the groundwater sample, using four different types of treatment. This process could evaluate the suitability of the groundwater for consumption and guide on future treatment processes for more efficient use. It is found that the harvested rainwater was not sufficient to meet the area's water demand on most days for landscaping purpose, necessitating reliance on groundwater. Moreover, the water quality index for groundwater was only complied with the required standards for non-potable uses, such as general cleaning, livestock consumption, and landscaping. It is recommended that the groundwater undergo additional treatment, particularly for the removal of heavy metals, to ensure consumer safety.

The current state of water resources in Poland - possibilities of water reuse and management by the Circular Economy

2025-06-01

Dominika Szołdrowska , Marzena Smol | Desalination and Water Treatment

Corrigendum to “Enhancing sewer low-loss transportation by food waste microencapsulation treatment: Dual suppression of organic leaching and biofilm architecture-function for mitigating hazardous gases and blockage risks” [Water Research Volume 282 (2025) 123749]

2025-06-01

Zigeng Zhang , Bo Liu , Wentao Chen +7 more | Water Research

Harmonized Low Impact Development (LID)-based building and urban design policies for the Philippines

2025-06-01

Ronald L. Orale , Rene B. Novilla , Doris Montecastro | IOP Conference Series Earth and Environmental Science

Abstract This research examines the existing laws, codes, and policies governing urban land use and building structures in the Philippines. As the final case study in a series focused on … Abstract This research examines the existing laws, codes, and policies governing urban land use and building structures in the Philippines. As the final case study in a series focused on low impact development and water-sensitive urban design, it identifies challenges in implementing these practices in the country. Employing a convergent design methodology, the study analyses four primary governing policies related to urban land use and building design, incorporating insights from various stakeholders. The findings propose 16 harmonized policies emphasizing critical areas such as mandatory mini-environmental assessments for all buildings, geohazard evaluations, enhancement of green spaces, promotion of rainwater harvesting especially at building level, and improved stormwater management. Despite the Philippines having six times more water resources than the global average, ineffective policies lead to its mismanagement. The need for a holistic integration of environmental considerations into building plans, mandatory geohazard risk assessments, and a defined percentage of green space in urban areas were highlighted including the need to develop a nationwide stormwater management manual and integrating Low Impact Development (LID) practices (or its equivalent). Ultimately, the study underscores that successful implementation hinges on strong government commitment to enforce these policies, as challenges in governance, more than engineering, impede sustainable development.

Using the Pollution Load Index to Evaluate Rooftop Harvested Rainwater Metal(loid) Contamination in Environmental Justice Communities

2025-06-01

God'sgift N Chukwuonye , Kunal Palawat , Robert A. Root +5 more | Environmental Research

Sustainable Waste Management in Hydropower: A Carbon Footprint Perspective

2025-06-01

Souttiphong Keovongsa , Keophousone Phonhalath , Sengthavy Phommixay | IOP Conference Series Earth and Environmental Science

Abstract This study explores the carbon footprint of waste management practices at the Nam Theun 2 Hydropower Plant in Laos, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the hydropower sector. Although … Abstract This study explores the carbon footprint of waste management practices at the Nam Theun 2 Hydropower Plant in Laos, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the hydropower sector. Although hydropower is a renewable energy source, the waste it generates can significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The study employs data collection and emission calculation methods to quantify emissions of CO 2 , CH 4 , and N 2 O from various waste management activities, including transportation, solid waste disposal, biological treatment, incineration, and wastewater treatment. The results indicate that waste management at the hydropower plant is a significant source of GHG emissions, particularly from transportation and treatment processes. The study identifies key emission sources and proposes strategies to reduce the carbon footprint, such as optimizing waste handling and integrating advanced treatment technologies. The conclusions highlight the necessity of incorporating carbon footprint considerations into waste management strategies to enhance the overall sustainability of hydropower operations, providing valuable insights for similar projects and informing effective waste management policies aligned with climate goals.