What is a key benefit of using green infrastructure in stormwater management?

Using green infrastructure in stormwater management significantly enhances natural filtration and biodiversity, which is a crucial benefit for several reasons. Green infrastructure incorporates natural processes and systems—like vegetation, soils, and natural landscapes—into urban environments to manage stormwater. This approach helps to filter pollutants and sediments from runoff more effectively than traditional gray infrastructure, such as concrete drainage systems.

The incorporation of plants and soil in green infrastructure not only retains stormwater but also supports a variety of habitats for wildlife, encouraging biodiversity. Diverse ecosystems are essential for maintaining ecological balance, aiding in pollination, and supporting wildlife which can thrive in urban settings.

In contrast, while some methods may attempt to reduce costs or increase the capacity for vehicle parking, they do not provide the same level of environmental benefit or long-term sustainability that green infrastructure offers. Furthermore, completely neglecting maintenance is unrealistic, as all systems require some level of care to ensure they function effectively.