Permeable Pavement– tag –

Modern cities move rainwater away as quickly as possible. Sponge cities take a different approach: making room for water through wetlands, rain gardens, and green spaces. Discover how this approach supports urban flood resilience—and why drainage infrastructure remains essential.

Cities have been designed to remove rainwater as quickly as possible. But pavement and rapid drainage concentrate runoff within a shorter period, increasing pluvial flood risk. Future cities must combine drainage with storage, infiltration, and delay.

Cities do not have to keep storing heat. Shade, mature trees, water-retentive ground, wind corridors, efficient buildings, and cooling shelters can help create safer urban environments designed around everyday life.