Climate change is making drinking water scarce, while also increasing flood risk. By implementing water sensitive urban design (WSUD) on your property, you can help Glen Eira become a more sustainable and liveable community, while saving money on your water bills.
Water Sensitive Urban Design for the home
Water sensitive urban design (WSUD) is a shift from the previous method of water management, where water is transported across the landscape and into waterways as quickly as possible. Instead, WSUD moves towards mimicking the natural water cycle. WSUD has been proven to reduce the harmful impact of stormwater pollution on our waterways, while also reducing flooding and household water use.
We are delivering a range of WSUD projects, however more than 65% of the land in Glen Eira is privately owned, which means that actions taken by households and businesses will play a critical role in preserving our natural environment and protecting our community from the impacts of climate change.
Permeability
Increasing the amount of water that is absorbed into soil reduces flood risk, and provides more water to your plants. Consider creating more permeable surfaces on your property. Soil is a simple permeable surface to introduce, while porous paving is becoming more common
Passive landscape treatments
Directing rainwater into gardens and other vegetated areas is vital to reducing overflow in drains, and conserving water. Wicking beds are an excellent DIY solution for absorbing more rainwater in the garden, while swales detain water and stop all the water from flowing to the drains at once.
Natural and constructed systems
Use raingardens, ponds or mini-wetlands to capture and treat stormwater. Veggie raingardens are a great way to grow food for the home and reduce flood risk.
Water harvesting, treatment and irrigation
There are many benefits to using alternative water sources. Consider getting a rainwater tank, installing a rainwater harvesting system or a greywater system. This case study shows the advantages of harvesting and reusing rainwater.
Sustainable garden design
When designing a garden from the start, it is important to pay strong consideration to choice of plants. Use this checklist to measure the sustainability of your garden. This house shows the benefits of sustainable garden design.
Water sensitive garden practices
Use of compost or mulch can increase the health of your soil. Don’t forget there is free mulch available! If your soil is healthy, it stores more water, enabling healthy plants while reducing mains supplied water use. Don’t forget to use water efficient products.
