The Role of Green Stormwater Infrastructure in Climate Resiliency

Green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) encompasses a variety of practices, such as bioretention and green roofs, primarily designed for managing stormwater runoff but that provide additional benefits. One potential benefit is climate resiliency, defined as the ability to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. This is an emerging topic and area of active research. In this presentation we explore what we know and are learning about the potential effect of GSI on climate-related impacts, such as increased flooding and drought, groundwater recharge, heat island impacts, and shoreline/streambank erosion. The discussion focuses on information provided to stormwater practitioners – what guidance can we give and what are we not yet able to say about the role of GSI in climate resiliency.