Sponge City

Sponge City

Sponge City is a design approach in Water Urbanism that uses green spaces, wetlands, and permeable surfaces to help cities soak up rainwater like a sponge. This method lets water move into the ground instead of running off hard surfaces, which helps fill underground water supplies and keeps rivers and lakes healthy. Designers use things like rain gardens, green roofs, and special paving stones that let water pass through. These features help lower the risk of floods and make city spaces cooler and greener. In some places, Sponge City designs have helped reduce the need for big stormwater pipes because the landscape itself manages the water.

urban water management, permeable surfaces, green infrastructure, rain gardens, stormwater control, urban wetlands

— Kevin Green