Unveiling the Infrastructure Crisis
Last week’s unprecedented deluge in Dubai exposed a glaring flaw in our urban designs: a lack of critical drainage systems amidst intensifying climate change. As cities expand worldwide, sprawling concrete jungles block natural waterways, leaving no respite for excessive rainfall, a consequence we will continue to grapple with in the face of climate change.
Concrete Barriers to Absorption
Dubai, built on a permeable sandy landscape, once allowed water to seep into the soil. However, rampant urbanization has transformed the city’s terrain with vast concrete surfaces, preventing water absorption and exacerbating drainage challenges. Last week’s downpour recorded the highest precipitation since record-keeping began in the country.
Waste Overload
Urbanization brings a surge in waste production, contributing further to drainage woes. Landfills and improper disposal practices worsen the situation by creating obstacles to natural drainage systems. Plastic, in particular, doesn’t absorb water, amplifying the backup of drainage systems worldwide.
Overwhelmed Old and New City Infrastructure
Even established drainage systems in older cities, like New York City, have encountered similar issues. Last fall, heavy rainfall overwhelmed the city’s infrastructure, inundating schools, homes, and transit systems. Debris and pollution clogged manmade drains, causing widespread flooding.
Climate Adaptation and Technological Interventions
“We need rainfall drainage systems that can handle the extreme flows we’re experiencing due to climate change,” emphasizes Tiago Marques, CEO of Greenmetrics.AI.
Smart sensor technology using LIDAR (similar to that used in self-driving cars) allows authorities to monitor flood-prone areas and clear drains before flooding occurs. These solutions provide early warning systems and time for evacuation or shutdown of hazard zones.
“What we used to see every 100 years is now happening every 10 years,” says Marques. “Adapting to climate change demands resilient technologies.”
Vapar, a startup specializing in sewer drain and pipe inspection robots, partners with governments to preemptively identify issues before they escalate during storms.
Innovative Materials and Waste Management
Arsky’s 4 Habitos Para Mudar o Mundo develops porous building materials that allow rainwater absorption while being strong enough for construction purposes. Their waste categorization technology assists companies and consumers in disposing of waste responsibly, mitigating its impact on drainage systems.
A Broader Message of Climate Action
“Climate change doesn’t discriminate,” warns Arsky. “Dubai’s flooding is a reminder that its effects are felt everywhere.”
As urban populations and extreme weather events increase, cities must prioritize sustainable urban planning, enhance drainage infrastructure, and embrace innovative solutions to adapt to our rapidly changing climate. The consequences of inaction are all too evident in the devastating floods we have witnessed around the world.
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
