Purpose and Objectives
The installation aims to enhance urban water management by preventing sudden underground water flow surges while promoting gradual and controlled infiltration. The project will allow for detailed monitoring of water retention processes, helping researchers and city planners develop effective strategies for climate adaptation and post-mining land development.
The blue-green infrastructure will feature:
✔ A selective capture system for monitoring both surface runoff and infiltration across different types of land surfaces.
✔A rain garden system for buffering, retaining, and treating excess rainwater.
✔A fully equipped weather station for real-time monitoring of extreme weather events.
Technical Features
The installation consists of four terraced platforms, each covered with different surface materials, to compare runoff and infiltration rates. Platforms are equipped with a measurement system that will track the amount of rainwater infiltrating the surface and flowing as surface runoff. These measurements will be combined with data from the weather station, allowing for precise analysis of how different surfaces interact with precipitation under real conditions.
The rain garden will serve as a key component of the system, designed to buffer the extreme rainwater flow events. It will be composed of layers of gravel, sand, and vegetation, ensuring natural filtration and retention.
Collaboration and Impact
The pilot action is a joint effort between Central Mining Institute – National Research Institute and the City of Jaworzno. It is part of the MAURICE project, which aims to develop nature-based solutions for sustainable water management in post-industrial areas.
The installation will not only serve as a research and development platform but also as an educational tool, reaching over 150,000 visitors annually at the GEOsfera center. The knowledge gained will be shared through the City of Jaworzno’s official channels, encouraging wider implementation of blue-green infrastructure solutions in urban planning.
Next Steps
Following construction, the system will undergo a testing and monitoring phase, during which researchers will collect and analyze data on its performance and efficiency. The results will contribute to future sustainable water management strategies, supporting climate resilience and responsible urban development.
We will keep you updated as the project progresses! Stay tuned for more insights into how blue-green infrastructure can revolutionize urban water management and environmental sustainability.