Drainage
Masterplan
Falster
Back to Nature: Embracing Nature-based Drainage Systems
Location
Falster Denmark
Type
Masterplan
Collaborator(s)
-
Client
Sweco A/S
Year
2022
This drainage masterplan for Falster is rooted in the innovative sponge city concept, aiming to create a resilient and sustainable water management system that harmonizes with the natural environment. The project prioritizes nature-based solutions to mitigate flooding while enhancing the local ecosystem. By adopting the sponge city approach, the plan focuses on absorbing, storing, and slowly releasing stormwater, reducing the risk of flooding.
Key interventions include the creation of detention basins, which temporarily hold excess stormwater, allowing it to gradually infiltrate the ground or be released into waterways. This method not only prevents immediate flooding but also replenishes groundwater levels, supporting the region's water cycle. The project also reintroduces floodplains, areas that can naturally flood during heavy rains, absorbing water and providing habitat for wildlife. These floodplains act as natural buffers, protecting nearby communities from flooding while promoting biodiversity.
Sponge City Concept as the Primary Solution Framework
Illustrated Series Depicting the Water Cycle
The vision: Transitioning from Conventional Sewer Systems to Nature-Based Solutions with Community Engagement
Year-round use of summerhouses increases pressure on the existing sewer system
Another critical aspect of the project is the reshaping of local streams to restore their natural, meandering courses.
By returning these waterways to their original, curvy states, the plan slows down water flow, reducing erosion and enhancing the stream's ability to support aquatic life.
This "back to nature" approach strengthens the natural ecosystem of Falster, creating a more sustainable and resilient drainage system that not only manages water effectively but also nurtures the local environment, contributing to a healthier and more balanced ecosystem.