Microbiological potential in SUDS beds

Challenge:

There has been an increased focus on climate adaptation solutions in cities and urban areas via Local Rainwater Harvesting (LRT). A major challenge for the use of SUDS solutions, such as rain gardens, is that treatment requirements for stormwater management are based on the recipient’s environmental goals and treatment to Best Available Techniques (BAT). BAT is currently wet retention basins, where rain gardens cannot currently be authorised due to insufficient documentation of treatment capacity.

Solution:

This project aims to investigate and uncover the ability of microorganisms to clean locally discharged rainwater in urban environments. While other projects focus on the overall effect, this knowledge bridge project focuses on the microbiological processes. In addition, the project will document the properties of microorganisms in SUDS environments, which will contribute to optimising rainwater technology.

Impact:

With a better understanding of the microbiological processes and their documentation, the outcome of the knowledge bridge project can increase the possibilities for SUDS solutions in the urban environment. This will contribute to a longer lifespan for SUDS solutions. The effect of the project can help maintain water quality and good chemical status for local receiving waters. Thus, rainwater management can fulfil both environmental and sustainability goals.