Berlin is undergoing significant construction measures to transform into a porous city that effectively manages stormwater. In two years, a large reservoir in the center of the city will become the largest water reservoir in Berlin, capturing and preserving water. The shift from preventing groundwater overflow to maintaining lush forests has been a crucial factor in this transformation, as reported by AFP.
According to Stephan Natz, spokesman for Berlin’s water authority, the previous goal was to drain rainwater to prevent flooding. However, in 2018, the city adopted a new approach to store rainwater to cope with drought and prevent flash floods. This change aligns with the porous city concept popular in developed urban centers across the US, China, and Europe, especially as climate change leads to more erratic and severe weather conditions.
Berlin has experienced both water shortages and flooding due to climate change’s impact on its 150-year-old sewer system. This system is not equipped to handle modern-day floods, resulting in polluted waterways during heavy rain. To address this issue, Berlin is creating a network of water reservoirs like the one being constructed in the city center and implementing innovative rainwater harvesting techniques in new housing projects.
Efforts are underway to make Berlin a truly porous city within the coming generations through initiatives such as Quartier 52, which features ponds that collect rainwater and create pleasant green spaces for residents. These projects aim to prevent flooding regulate water supply while promoting sustainable urban development. With approximately 30 similar projects already completed or underway, Berlin is well on its way towards becoming a porous city that can effectively manage stormwater.
