Multi-Benefits of Transitioning from Conventional to Sustainable Stormwater Management Approaches

Sustainable drainage approaches are expanding in function to include water harvesting, water storage and renewable energy. These multi-functions are expected to continue to expand in view of changing climate, water scarcity and rising cost of energy as well as the need to pursue sustainable approaches and resource optimization. This chapter explores the transition from conventional drainage system to sustainable drainage system as well as the multi-benefit applications of sustainable drainage techniques. It appears that the sustainability score card of sustainable drainage systems is also expanding to include other components which are not related to the four pillars of SuDS, but are also sustainable, such as renewable energy generation and water harvesting. It is expected that these expanding functions would drive increased adoption of the technology even in developing countries.