Multi-objective approach for determining optimal sustainable urban drainage systems combination at city scale. the case of san luis potosi (Mexico)

Abstract

A method for determining the optimal Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDs) combination at city scale is presented in this paper. A comprehensive set of SUDs categories comprising infrastructures aimed at either detaining and locally reusing or infiltrating precipitation are considered. A volumetric water balance is proposed for modelling hydrological processes in urban catchments. A multi-criteria approach combining a cost function and aims for both recharging aquifers and limiting runoff contribution to water courses is proposed to find the optimal SUDs combination. The water balance was run with each possible SUDs combination and the optimal set of SUDs was found. The method was applied to the Metropolitan Area of San Luis Potosi (Mexico). The optimal solutions in this case clearly promoted surface runoff detention and reuse over porous pavements and green roofs but they were sensitive to the considered costs. The SUD requirements to potential new urban developments for each catchment to comply with the original hydrological aims were also studied. The method requires customizing the cost function and using representative climatic data.