Chapter 29 - Expert Tool Based on Ecosystem Variables for Retrofitting of Wetland Systems

Abstract

Chapter 29 highlights the need for a geospatial decision support tool for different professions, which is useful for a quick assessment of the potential of ecosystem services when retrofitting sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in urban areas. Therefore, the aim is to develop an innovative rapid decision support tool based on ecosystem service variables for retrofitting of key SuDS techniques by different professionals such as drainage engineers, developers, ecologists, planners, and social scientists. The approach is based on a novel ecosystem service philosophy adapted to SuDS rather than on traditional engineering judgment associated with variables based on quick community and environment assessments. After studying this chapter, readers will appreciate that the traditional approach of determining community and environment variables indicates that infiltration trenches, soak-aways, and below-ground storage systems are usually less preferred than permeable pavement systems regardless of the professional perspective. However, ponds also received relatively high scores because of their great potential impact in terms of water quality improvement and flood control.