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Inspiration Card
Nature Based Solution
Constructed Wetlands & Built Structures for Water Management

N15 Bioswale

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Challenges
Climate Resilience Water Management Natural and Climate Hazards Biodiversity Enhancement Air Quality Health and Well-being Social Justice and Social Cohesion
Description

A bioswale is a vegetated, linear and low-sloped structure often established in urban areas, near or between roads, with the objective to reduce flood risk during or after heavy rain events. Bioswales absorb, store and convey surface water runoff, and remove pollutants and sediments, as the water trickles through the layers. If properly planned and planted with deep-rooted native vegetation, a bioswale can both contribute to local storm water management and help support biodiversity.

Conditions for Implementation
  • A large enough area so that bioswales can be an effective part of the stormwater management system
  • Water collection system (e.g. from roofs and paved areas)
Similar Terminology
Swale
Grassed swale
Vegetated filter strip
Strip swale
Performance
    Cooling Service Transpiration
    Shading
    Evaporation
    Building (Insulation)
    Reflection (Albedo)
    Surface Water Regulation Water Conveyance
    Water Infiltration
    Water Retention
    Water Storage
    Water Reuse
    Water Purification Water Filtering
    Water Bio-remediation
    Air Purification and Noise Reduction Deposition
    Air Biofiltration
    Noise Reduction
    Biodiversity Habitat Provision
    Connectivity
    Socio-Cultural Services Beauty / Appearance
    Usability / Functionality
    Social Interaction
    Education
    Provisioning Service Food / Energy / Material
    Climate Regulation CO2 Sequestration