We are thrilled to announce the publication of review article, Concepts and Evolution of Urban Hydrology, now available online in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment. This comprehensive piece, co-authored by our lab's Principal Investigator Perrine Hamel and other esteemed researchers, sheds light on the pressing challenges of urban flood risk management in the face of rapid urbanisation and climate change
As cities around the globe brace for intensified rainfall and increased flood risks—projected to rise significantly by 2050—this article explores innovative strategies for transforming stormwater management systems. The review emphasises the urgent need for approaches that integrate natural ecosystems, underscoring a shift toward nature-based solutions like rain gardens and smart sensor networks. These methods not only enhance water security but also restore vital ecological functions in urban environments.
Perrine Hamel played a pivotal role in this collaborative effort, contributing her expertise on urban hydrology and management practices that harmonise with nature. She notes the timeliness of this review, stating, "A timely review given the rapid changes in drivers of urban flood risk and in society's expectations for cities to manage such risks. Importantly, we show how management approaches sensitive to natural ecosystems in and around cities are becoming mainstream." This perspective is essential as urban areas navigate the complexities of integrating flood management with ecological preservation.
The article highlights several key findings:
Traditional stormwater systems are frequently overwhelmed, leading to local water scarcity and downstream flooding.
Nature-based solutions can significantly mitigate flood risk while providing additional ecosystem services.
Community engagement and acceptance of stormwater harvesting are remarkably high, indicating a public readiness for innovative management strategies.
With urban populations expected to swell to 68% by 2050, the need for actionable insights and effective governance models is more critical than ever. This review not only discusses the evolution of urban hydrology but also provides a roadmap for future research and policy development aimed at enhancing urban resilience.
For anyone interested in the future of urban water management, this article is a must-read. You can access the full text here.
Congratulations to Perrine Hamel and the entire research team for this significant contribution to the field! As we continue to confront the challenges posed by urbanisation and climate change, this work lays the groundwork for transformative approaches that prioritise both infrastructure and natural ecosystems.
References:
Fletcher, T.D., Burns, M.J., Russell, K.L. et al. Concepts and evolution of urban hydrology. Nat Rev Earth Environ 5, 789–801 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43017-024-00599-x
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