Lykilþættir í innleiðingu blágrænna ofanvatnslausna á Íslandi

Abstract

Existing urban drainage structures that collect stormwater in underground piping networks face increased pressure with urban densification and increased rainfall intensity with global warming. Urban flooding may become more frequent in the future posing economic, environmental and health risks. Sustainable Drainage Solutions (SuDS) are increasingly being considered as a natural and economical approach to surface water management. Ponds, vegetated swales, rain gardens and green roofs slow down the surface water flow and break down pollutants stemming from traffic, asphalt wear and roof materials. SuDS has been designed for one neighbourhood in Iceland, Urriðaholt. The Icelandic Planning Act and National Planning Strategy have set the base for the implementation of SuDS. Iceland, however, lacks a comprehensive strategy to obtain the benefits of SuDS. This article presents the key success factors for implementing SuDS in Iceland, based on a review of Sweden's and England ́s decadal experience, and current legal, planning, knowledge and data environment in Iceland. Firstly, it is important to clarify the strategic goals of urban runoff management in governmental policy documents. Secondly, the implementation of SuDS needs to be intertwined with the planning process both in municipal and detailed planning phases. A collaborative effort must be undertaken between sewer specialists, planners and other professionals to develop novel surface water collection approaches with respect to local conditions. Collaboration, roles and responsibilities must be clear and identified throughout the SuDS life cycle, from strategy, planning and design, to construction, operation and maintenance. More interdisciplinary research needs to be conducted with regards to SuDS, and communicated to local stakeholders to improve their general knowledge on SuDS.