Potentials and limitations for water sensitive Urban design in copenhagen

A multidisciplinary case study

authored by: O. Fryd, A. Backhaus, H. Birch, C. Fratini, S. T. Ingvertsen, J. Jeppesen, T. E.P. Petersen, M. K. Roldin, T. Dam, W. R. Torgard, M. B. Jensen
Abstract: WSUD is emerging in Denmark. An integrated multidisciplinary case study has investigated the options for WSUD retrofitting in a 15 km² combined sewer catchment area in Copenhagen, Denmark, with the aim of reducing combined sewer overflows. The study was developed in collaboration with the City of Copenhagen and its water utility board, and involved researchers representing hydrogeology, sewer hydraulics, environmental chemistry, economics, engineering, urban planning and landscape architecture. The resulting multi-level catchment strategy, with a target of disconnecting 60% of the impervious area, suggests the implementation of four substrategies. First, disconnection is focused within sites that are relatively easy to disconnect, due to water quality, soil conditions, and the provision of open space. Secondly, up to 30% of the annual stormwater run-off is infiltrated in areas with relatively deep groundwater levels. Third, neighbourhoods located near low-lying wetland areas are disconnected and the sloping terrain is utilised for the conveyance of stormwater runoff. Fourth, the promotion of coherent urban green infrastructures is linked with WSUD transformations, urban greening and urban climate-proofing. In combination, these make the goal of 60% disconnection achievable. The study has generated four scientific papers so far, as well as concrete outputs which are partially adopted and currently under full-scale testing by the City of Copenhagen.
External Organisation(s): University of Copenhagen
Technical University of Denmark
ALECTIA A/S
Type: Conference contribution
Publication date: 2012
Publication status: Published
Peer reviewed: Yes
ASJC Scopus subject areas: Civil and Structural Engineering, Building and Construction, Architecture
Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 13 - Climate Action