Historically, new development has involved the construction of large areas of impermeable surfaces including concrete and asphalt pavements, drives, paths and car parking areas. This has created urban flooding by overloading our existing rainwater and sewerage systems through stormwater run-off. This disregard for natural infiltration into the sub-soil and source control has significantly contributed to the increasing occurrence of extreme flooding events. Polluted run-off also contributes to extensive river pollution and limits groundwater recharge.
ABG Geosynthetics have developed creative sustainable approaches in the innovative design of hybrid (both above and below ground) Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) where storm water is effectively managed, and when viable utilised as a valuable natural resource.
SuDS source control techniques, such as porous paving and green/blue roofs play a significant role in reducing flood risk by managing storm water naturally and alleviating the burden on our existing, failing drainage infrastructure.
In addition to incorporating SuDS into all new development, the greatest challenge is the clear need to retrofit SuDS within existing infrastructure. This is essential if we are to achieve our objectives of flood risk management and improved water quality, as well as using water as a resource to improve the environment, promote biodiversity and adapt to ongoing climate change.
