Framework, Procedure, and Tools for Comprehensive Evaluation of Sustainable Stormwater Management: A Review

Tiange Wu,Haihong Song,Jianbin Wang,Eran Friedler

doi:10.3390/w12051231

Abstract

To better evaluate and enhance the performance and benefit of sustainable stormwater management (SSWM) in developing countries, this study proposes a comprehensive evaluation framework based on thorough literature review. This framework re-classifies evaluation goals and indicators into four aspects—stormwater system, integrated management, social engagement, and urban development. The purpose of this review is to provide a guideline for decision makers to choose appropriate goals and indicators according to different regional context. Meanwhile, a structured procedure for comprehensive evaluation of SSWM is proposed to guide a well-organised decision-making process. Furthermore, pros and cons of eight decision support tools, as well as their functional focus, are compared, aiming to provide references for SSWM in developing countries. Outcomes presented in this review are expected to support decision makers in the process of screening optimal SSWM strategies and monitoring SSWM projects.

Highlights

In recent years, rapid urbanisation and high-density construction have caused continuous expansion of impervious areas, leading to significant changes in the hydrology and ecosystem in cities [1,2]
Comprehensive evaluation framework for sustainable stormwater management (SSWM) is based on correct selection of management objectives and evaluation indicators, which is crucial in guiding stormwater management (SWM) of all stages
SWM is included in integrated water resources management and environmental protection strategies, for which relevant international organisations have formulated a series of objectives

Summary

Introduction

Rapid urbanisation and high-density construction have caused continuous expansion of impervious areas, leading to significant changes in the hydrology and ecosystem in cities [1,2] These changes include reduction of stormwater infiltration, generation of massive stormwater runoff, decrease of groundwater recharge and continuous aggravation of non-point source pollution, all leading to major challenges in urban stormwater management (SWM) [3,4]. Given these challenges, traditional engineering solutions for SWM are increasingly recognized as not appropriate because they are not environmentally sustainable. Green infrastructure-based sustainable stormwater management (SSWM) has been suggested as an alternative adaptive strategy for mitigating the long-term impacts of urbanisation and climate change like more frequent occurrences of extreme conditions of floods, droughts, heatwaves and other threats to human and nature [5,6].

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion