What does impervious surface reduction aim to achieve?

Impervious surface reduction primarily aims to decrease surface runoff. When impervious surfaces, such as asphalt and concrete, are minimized or replaced with permeable materials, water can infiltrate into the ground rather than flowing over the surface. This reduction in surface runoff helps manage stormwater more effectively, reduces flooding risks, and can improve water quality by allowing pollutants to filter through the soil before reaching waterways.

The approach also supports natural hydrological processes, helping to recharge groundwater supplies and maintain ecosystem health. Reducing impervious surfaces is a crucial strategy in sustainable urban planning and design as it enhances the resilience of landscapes to extreme weather events, mitigates urban flooding, and promotes sustainable drainage systems.