Research on key fundamentals and technical systems of Sponge City development in China

Abstract

The Chinese government has promoted Sponge City construction in the last five years. The premise for a “Sponge City” was based on the problem of accumulation and rapid discharge of various stormwater and water-environment issues during the urbanization process in China. With reference to the expansion of stormwater management in other developed countries, this study summarizes related research results in China. Unlike other stormwater management systems put forward by other countries, such as low impact development, water sensitive urban design, etc., this study investigates stormwater issues at the current developmental stage in China and comprehensively considers the integrated objectives, including water ecology, water security, water resources, water environment, and water culture. Aimed at transforming the traditional extensive urbanization model, it builds on the existing integrated system at the core of stormwater management, which connects with the sewage and / or water supply, and other related systems. This study describes and summarizes the Sponge City’s key fundamentals, targets, technical systems, and extensional relations to guide the further construction of Sponge City and provide important references for other countries.