From Draining to Storing: Berlin’s Transformation into a Porous City for Sustainable Stormwater Management

Berlin is undergoing a significant transformation in its construction measures to become a porous city that effectively manages stormwater. The focus of the city has shifted from draining rainwater to prevent flooding to storing it to cope with drought and flash floods. This change is necessary due to the impacts of climate change, which have led to more erratic weather patterns and increased severity of storms.

The outdated sewer system in Berlin is unable to handle the current volume of rainfall, leading to pollution and flooding in the Spree River. As a result, groundwater levels have not been able to fully recover, hindering the ground’s ability to absorb sudden heavy rains. To address these challenges, Berlin has initiated various projects such as constructing a massive water reservoir and requiring rainwater harvesting plans for new housing projects.

With approximately 30 similar projects underway, Berlin aims to become a truly porous city that effectively manages stormwater. By implementing measures like water collection devices, green rooftops, and decentralized water storage solutions, the city aims to create a more sustainable and resilient urban environment. The massive hole in the center of Berlin will become the largest water reservoir in the city within two years, capturing and storing water as a valuable resource.

As the effects of climate change continue to impact cities worldwide, adopting porous city strategies can help cities like Berlin adapt to these challenges and build a more sustainable future. By becoming more porous cities that manage stormwater effectively, cities can reduce their reliance on traditional infrastructure like sewers and drainage systems while also protecting their natural resources from pollution and depletion.