Terraced wetlands in Haikou, one of Hainan’s two major cities. Credit: Turenscape

Imagine a city where every drop of rain is a blessing rather than a curse. Welcome to the world of Sponge Cities – urban marvels that not only defy the forces of nature, but thrive in harmony with it.

Inspired by the resilience of natural sponges, these cities are revolutionising urban planning by redefining our relationship with water. Led by visionary landscape architect Kongjian Yu, Sponge Cities utilise a variety of solutions from nature to absorb rainwater and contain flooding, while creating vibrant green spaces that breathe life into the concrete jungle.

Innovation and sustainability are at the centre of Sponge Cities. Porous paving mimics the absorbent properties of the soil, allowing water to slowly seep away and replenish the earth below. Green roofs and gardens adorn the skyline, providing not only recreation for city dwellers but also habitats for diverse flora and fauna. Enhanced wetlands act as nature’s filtration system, purifying water and improving air quality for all.

The impact of Sponge Cities is undeniable. They have been trialled in 30 cities across China and have already begun to transform urban landscapes and make them more resilient to the growing threat of extreme weather conditions. And with plans to integrate these principles into the master plans of 538 more cities, the potential for positive change is limitless.

The China Sea surrounds Hainan. Credit: Google Earth

But beyond their practical benefits, Sponge Cities represent a paradigm shift in our approach to urban living. They offer a glimpse into a future where human ingenuity and ecological harmony coexist seamlessly. They remind us that if we work with nature rather than against it, we can create cities that not only survive, but thrive.

So would you like to live in a Sponge City? It’s more than just a city – it’s a beacon of hope, a testament to our ability to adapt and evolve in harmony with the world around us. It’s a vision of the future we can all aspire to – one where sustainability, resilience and beauty come together to create a better world for generations to come.

Source 

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-59115753

Cities Are Becoming More Like Sponges