Design guidelines for sustainable rainwater solutions in the section “Plants – application and assortment”

The project developed Design Guidelines for Sustainable Stormwater Solutions (SWSS), which combine green infrastructure elements with engineering methods to create modern and ecological urban systems. The guidelines offer a comprehensive approach to stormwater management, focusing on mimicking natural processes, reducing flood risk and improving water quality.

Key features of the guidelines

SWSS systems are adaptable to urban density and climate change challenges. The guidelines offer solutions that help stormwater naturally absorb, filter and gradually return to natural cycles. The most important solutions include:

· Rain gardens, which capture and filter water from impervious surfaces.

· Green roofs, which provide water accumulation and improve the urban microclimate.

· Wetlands and infiltration basins, which improve water quality and ensure biodiversity.

· Green corridors that combine aesthetics with efficient water management and heat island mitigation.

The role of plants in sustainable solutions

The project emphasizes the multifunctionality of plants: water retention, soil stabilization, pollutant filtration and provision of ecological services. Plants are selected taking into account local climatic conditions and their ability to adapt to fluctuations in humidity levels.

Global trends and local relevance

Considering the increase in urban urbanization and the more intense impact of climate change, the guidelines offer decentralized approaches based on the integration of natural processes. They are in line with international green infrastructure trends and help create a more resilient, ecologically friendly and economically advantageous urban environment.

The guidelines are a significant step towards the development of sustainable infrastructure in Latvia, promoting the integration of environmentally friendly solutions in the urban environment, reducing flood risk and improving the quality of life of society.