Introduction<br />Modern cities face increasing challenges in managing stormwater due to urban expansion and the rise of impervious surfaces, which lead to higher risks of flooding and water pollution. Green infrastructure plays a crucial role in improving stormwater management by leveraging natural solutions and sustainable technologies to reduce runoff and enhance water quality. This article reviews the concept of green infrastructure, its key techniques, and its role in managing stormwater in urban environments.<br /><br />1. The Concept of Green Infrastructure<br />Green infrastructure refers to a network of green spaces and natural or semi-natural components used for sustainable stormwater management, such as parks, green roofs, constructed wetlands, and natural drainage systems. It aims to reduce surface runoff, increase water infiltration, and improve water quality before it enters drainage systems or water sources.<br /><br />2. Challenges in Stormwater Management in Modern Cities<br />Increase in impervious surfaces such as pavements and asphalt.<br /><br />Rising intensity of heavy rainfall due to climate change.<br /><br />Conventional drainage systems insufficient to handle high water loads.<br /><br />Surface water pollution caused by runoff carrying contaminants.<br /><br />3. Green Infrastructure Techniques for Stormwater Management<br />1. Green Roofs<br />Vegetated layers installed on building rooftops.<br /><br />Reduce stormwater runoff, provide thermal insulation, and increase biodiversity.<br /><br />2. Permeable Pavements<br />Allow stormwater to infiltrate through to the underlying soil.<br /><br />Decrease runoff volumes entering traditional drainage systems.<br /><br />3. Rain Gardens<br />Planted areas designed to absorb stormwater and filter pollutants.<br /><br />Reduce runoff volume and improve water quality.<br /><br />4. Constructed Wetlands<br />Serve as natural filters to purify stormwater before it is discharged into the environment.<br /><br />5. Street Trees and Green Spaces<br />Help absorb water through roots and reduce urban heat island effects.<br /><br />4. Benefits of Green Infrastructure<br />Benefit Explanation<br />Flood Risk Reduction Absorbing and storing stormwater reduces pressure on drainage networks.<br />Water Quality Improvement Filtering pollutants before water reaches natural sources.<br />Biodiversity Enhancement Providing habitats for plants and animals in urban areas.<br />Improved Urban Comfort Lowering temperatures and enhancing air quality and green spaces.<br />Environmental Sustainability Using natural resources reduces reliance on hard infrastructure.<br /><br />Conclusion<br />Green infrastructure is a sustainable and effective approach to managing stormwater in modern cities, combining natural solutions with engineering techniques to protect the environment and improve urban quality of life. Adopting these strategies requires integrated planning and cooperation between government entities and local communities to achieve more resilient and sustainable cities in the face of climate change challenges.<br /><br />