Like a Sponge: Could this be the Future of Urban Water Systems?

A sponge city is an urban concept designed to make cities more resilient to floods and extreme weather events. The city functions like a sponge, absorbing rainwater, storing it, and slowly releasing it. This is achieved through permeable surfaces, green spaces, green roofs, and rainwater storage systems, which together reduce the risk of flooding and improve water supply during dry periods. National Geographic explains this concept in an engaging and insightful article.

Environmental sensors are crucial in sponge cities, as they monitor key parameters such as soil moisture, rainfall, and water levels in real-time. For instance, Decentlab’s DL-SMTP sensor measures soil moisture and temperature, while the DL-PR26 tracks ground water and water levels, and the DL-MBX provides ultrasonic distance and water level measurements. These sensors help optimize water absorption and storage, prevent flooding, and ensure water and air quality. This continuous data collection enables better planning and adaptation, enhancing the resilience of sponge cities to climate change impacts.

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