Mitigation of Urban Surface Runoff Through LID Solutions: Case Study in Mediterranean Area

Abstract

Here we investigate the influence of Low Impact Development (LID) practices implementation at urban catchment scale, by applying SWMM model to a densely urbanized area of the city of Cosenza, using monthly storms events. Among the source-control measures, Green Roofs and Permeable Pavements were chosen, being particularly suitable for highly urbanised areas already equipped with an underground drainage system. The main objective of this study is to assess how the implementation of LID techniques in urban areas can be an effective solution to improve stormwater management and restore the natural flow regime. With this aim, different conversion scenarios have been simulated and compared to the existing condition of the catchment, before LIDs implementation at catchment scale. Results reveal that combined LID techniques perform better than single LID practices in terms of both runoff reduction and increase in total infiltration.