In Australia and New Zealand, weather cycles such as La Nina and El Nino result in weather cycles that oscillate between dry and wet weather periods. This can lead to extreme weather events and rainfall patterns – with flooding during periods of heavy rainfall and droughts during prolonged periods of dry weather.
Combinations of stormwater retention and detention infrastructure facilitate resiliency to these diverse environmental conditions to futureproof our communities. Taking a multi-pronged approach to water quantity management allows the development of stormwater systems that adapt to the demands of our weather cycles.
On-site stormwater detention (OSD tanks) slows peak flows during high-volume rainfall events – which mitigates flooding and allows stormwater to soak. By channelling rainfall away from vulnerable areas, we protect community assets such as properties and infrastructure from damage and provide a storage buffer to allow stormwater to infiltrate and slowly release.
Alternatively, during dry weather, stormwater retention (stormwater harvesting) stores water for reuse applications such as irrigation, toilet flushing, gardening and vehicle wash bays – providing an alternative water source to council supplies and conventional water networks.
Modern approaches to stormwater management support resilient communities and develop infrastructure to futureproof our urban environment against extreme weather and local climatic conditions.
From flooding to drought, it is paramount that we plan and create adaptable communities – and integrate stormwater systems that harness stormwater as a usable resource. Learn more about these concepts in our Cowes, Phillip Island case study or watch the video below.
