China is pioneering a groundbreaking approach to urban flood control with the “sponge city” concept. Developed by landscape architect Yu Kongjian, this strategy leverages natural methods to absorb and manage excess rainwater. As flooding becomes increasingly common in densely populated areas, this innovative solution is gaining traction across the country.
By Joseph Gutierrez
The Sponge City Concept
Yu Kongjian, a leading landscape architect, has implemented the sponge city concept in over 300 projects throughout China with his firm, Turenscape. Rather than relying on costly and maintenance-intensive infrastructure like dams and concrete walls, Yu uses native plants, permeable soils, and strategic planning to manage rainwater. These projects not only address flooding but also transform polluted or abandoned spaces into vibrant green areas, improving the urban environment.
Advantages Over Traditional Methods
Compared to conventional flood control measures, sponge cities offer several distinct benefits. Yu argues that rigid structures like high floodwalls often fail to adapt to natural challenges and are expensive to build and maintain. In contrast, sponge cities are flexible and can be tailored to specific areas within a city, making them more cost-effective and efficient. This adaptability allows cities to manage water more naturally and sustainably.
Success Stories in Chinese Cities
One remarkable example of the sponge city concept in action is the Nanchang Fish Tail Park in Jiangxi Province. Spanning 124 acres, this former fish farm and coal ash dump site was transformed into a thriving park that not only absorbs floodwater but also supports local flora and fauna. Similar projects, such as the Sanya Mangrove Park in Hainan, have revitalized previously unused or polluted lands, enhancing both flood control and biodiversity.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The economic benefits of sponge city projects are substantial. In Wuhan, for example, sponge city initiatives developed by Turenscape and others cost nearly $550 million less than traditional concrete infrastructure. Beyond cost savings, these projects also enhance urban life by creating new green spaces and restoring local ecosystems. By integrating natural solutions into urban planning, sponge cities demonstrate that sustainable approaches can be both economically and ecologically advantageous.
Yu Kongjian’s sponge city concept has the potential to make cities worldwide more resilient to the growing challenges of climate change. By harnessing natural resources intelligently, these projects reduce flood risks, create new habitats, and improve urban living conditions. The success of these initiatives highlights the value of sustainable, nature-based solutions in modern urban development.
Based on content from www.goodnewsnetwork.org and own research.