By incorporating green infrastructure options with their stormwater management plans, Washington DC has become a model of sustainable infrastructure. They’re saving money and resources, while fulfilling the EPA consent decree, reports George Hawkins.
“The workshop demonstrated how local government practioners in Metro Vancouver are meeting the challenge of moving from planning to action. By bringing people together to share their experiences, we believe effective implementation of the design with nature principles can be addressed through practical changes,” Paul Ham stated.
“Problems are the legacy of our obsolete 19th century stormwater management system – a system that fails to respect natural systems and water cycles. However, rainwater management practices have recently been developed that make the 21st century Green City possible,” conclude Calvin Sandborn.
“Whenever possible, we should be looking for ways to better manage our stormwater with natural processes and leveraging our drainage investmentsSeattle residents and businesses care about the environment. And that’s why we are inviting the whole community to join us in this effort,” said Mayor Mike McGinn.
“The City is planning to dramatically increase its use of green infrastructure to treat stormwater runoff,” reports Bellamy Pailthorp.
“BC environmental laws are in urgent need of reform. The stakes are high. Yet current laws have not only failed to keep pace with our booming resource industries and population growth — our laws are actually weaker than they were a few years ago. The articles in this book aim to remedy this by recommending specific changes to BC environmental laws,” states Calvin Sandborn.
“Effective stormwater management is one of the most widespread challenges to water quality in the nation. These funds will help expand the use of green infrastructure, revitalize local neighborhoods and help safeguard people’s health and the environment,” said Nancy Stoner
“Local governments already plan for change, and can mainstream climate change adaptation strategies into official community plans, financial and infrastructure planning, emergency response, community development and the protection of the natural environment,” states Deborah Carlson.
“Deep, rich topsoil is a giant sponge for water – slowly releasing moisture as the plants grow. It captures rain so you don’t have to irrigate as often. And it reduces run-off. If we can reduce the waste, and “Make Water Work,” it leaves more water for fish, more for growing local food and wine, and cuts our water costs,” states Anna Warwick Sears.
“Asset management usually commences after something is built. The challenge is to think about what asset management entails BEFORE the asset is built. Cost-avoidance is a driver for this ‘new business as usual’. This paradigm-shift starts with land use and watershed-based planning, to determine what services can be provided affordably,” states Glen Brown.
