The Need Of Sponge City And How It Can Help Cities

Sponge City is a concept designed to soak up the extra water from any area. This article is all about the requirement of such a concept and system and also its benefits. First, let's have a look at why was this concept needed to be designed initially.

1.       Water Scarcity in Urban Areas

Extensive urbanization and urban sprawling are the major cause of water scarcity. The impervious roads, roofs, parking lots, and pavements have made the absorption of water from the grounds quite difficult. Moreover, the rainwater also doesn't lead to the soil due to the massive infrastructure of the urban sites, which is why a fresh concept was required to combat this problem.

2.       Polluted Water Discharged into Rivers or the Sea

Another major key issue in cities is that there is no proper drainage system. The rainwater and the wastewater are collected from the same big pipe. This often leads to massive disasters in cities, especially in monsoon times. The worst part is all the waste is then discharges into the rivers and seas and eventually polluting all the local water bodies.

3.       Degradation of Urban Ecosystems 

The improper drainage system and rising pollution also lead to the complete degradation of the urban ecosystem. This urban sprawling also ruins the entire biodiversity, such as the reduction of greener areas, decrease in CO2 capture by plants, and lesser areas for natural cooling. Subsequently, the liveable, comfortable, healthy, and attractive spaces are lost for the public.

4.       Frequency in Urban Flooding

Increased urbanization also creates an impact on the weather and the climate. The rapid changes cause urban flooding. The reason is due to such events, the absorbing capacity of the urban surface is minimalized. Such massive flooding disasters also cause increased groundwater flooding as well as health-related issues overall.

How does Sponge City Help?

The implementation of a sponge city is possible by contacting the sponge city model provider as they promise the following improvements.

• The execution of a sponge city renders replenished groundwater and promises cleaner water for the city.
• Sponge city offers more permeable spaces for percolation of water as well as for natural retention. Subsequently, the risks of flooding are also reduced.
• The development of the sponge city lowers the burden on other artificial systems, water treatment plants, natural streams, and drainage systems. 
• The quality of urban life is improved with better greenery, healthier surrounding, and enjoyable urban spaces.
• The entire biodiversity is enriched with the sponge city.