Optimising Stormwater Drainage
The increasing frequency of heavy rainfall events presents significant challenges for urban areas: overloaded drainage systems, urban flooding, and costly damages are becoming all too common. However, there is a sustainable solution – nature-based stormwater management (SWM). This approach reduces peak runoff, improves the microclimate, replenishes groundwater, boosts biodiversity, and makes rainwater available for irrigation.
Smart planning for natural solutions
As part of the RAINDROP research project, KWB is collaborating with ÖSTAP Engineering & Consulting GmbH, BOKU Vienna, and tandler.com GmbH to develop an innovative methodology for planning and optimising SWM measures. The project focuses on a simulation-based software tool that systematically integrates green infrastructure elements, such as green roofs, infiltration basins, and swale-trench systems, and evaluates their effect on flood prevention and water balance on a project scale.
Our contribution – research that makes a difference
KWB contributes its scientific and technical expertise across three key areas:
Targeted Water Balance: Using the ABIMO model, we analyse urban and natural water cycles and define realistic targets for planning effective measures.
Algorithm-Based Optimisation: Intelligent algorithms support the design and sizing of nature-based solutions.
User-Friendly Software Development: Findings are incorporated into an intuitive planning tool that enables municipalities and planning offices to implement cost-effective and sustainable SWM strategies.
The benefits of green infrastructure
RAINDROP places nature-based solutions at the forefront, as they offer numerous societal and environmental benefits:
Enhancing urban microclimates and quality of life
Promoting biodiversity and creating natural recreational spaces
Supporting sustainable urban and open space development
Contributing to climate resilience by restoring natural water cycles
Rethinking project planning
RAINDROP is developing a practical methodology to help planners integrate green-blue infrastructure into construction and redevelopment projects while ensuring compliance with municipal regulations. Ultimately, the project aims to make cities more climate-resilient, liveable, and sustainable – a critical step towards future-proof infrastructure.
Through RAINDROP, KWB reinforces its role as a driving force in innovative urban planning and supports the incorporation of green infrastructure into urban water management.
