Chapter 28 - Retrofitting of Sustainable Drainage Systems in the Presence of Vegetation

Abstract

The retrofitting of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) is currently undertaken ad hoc using expert experience supported by minimal guidance based predominantly on hard engineering variables. The aim of this chapter is to develop an innovative, rapid decision support tool based on novel ecosystem service variables for retrofitting of permeable pavement systems close to trees. This tool proposes the retrofitting of permeable pavements that obtained the highest ecosystem service score for a specific urban site enhanced by the presence of trees. This approach is based on a novel ecosystem service philosophy adapted to permeable pavements rather than on traditional engineering judgment associated with variables based on quick community and environment assessments. A comparison with the traditional approach of determining community and environment variables indicates that permeable pavements are generally a preferred SuDS option. This chapter makes clear that permeable pavements combined with urban trees received relatively high scores because of their great potential impact in terms of water and air quality improvement and in terms of flood control.