What is the concept of green infrastructure?
Green Infrastructure (GI) is a strategically planned and managed network of natural and semi-natural areas, features, and green spaces in urban and rural settings that deliver a wide range of ecosystem services while enhancing biodiversity, environmental quality, and human well-being.
Unlike traditional "grey infrastructure" (roads, pipes, buildings), green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and natural processes to manage water, create healthier urban environments, and provide multiple community benefits. It represents a cost-effective, resilient approach to urban challenges.
| Component | Description | Primary Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Parks & Gardens | Public green spaces, community gardens, botanical gardens | Recreation, air quality, carbon sequestration, habitat |
| Green Roofs | Vegetation layers on building rooftops (extensive or intensive) | Stormwater retention, insulation, urban heat mitigation |
| Green Walls/Facades | Vertical gardens on building exteriors | Air purification, cooling, aesthetic value, noise reduction |
| Urban Forests/Street Trees | Tree cover along streets, in neighborhoods | Shade, carbon storage, air filtration, property values |
| Bioswales | Vegetated channels for stormwater conveyance | Water filtration, flood control, pollutant removal |
| Rain Gardens | Planted depressions collecting runoff | Infiltration, groundwater recharge, water treatment |
| Permeable Pavements | Porous surfaces allowing water infiltration | Reduce runoff, recharge aquifers, reduce heat |
| Constructed Wetlands | Engineered ecosystems mimicking natural wetlands | Wastewater treatment, flood control, habitat |
| Green Corridors | Linear green spaces connecting habitats | Wildlife movement, recreation, ecological connectivity |
| Blue Infrastructure | Water bodies - ponds, lakes, streams, rivers | Flood management, cooling, biodiversity, amenity |
Climate Adaptation: Green infrastructure is a key Nature-Based Solution (NbS) for urban climate resilience, addressing multiple climate risks simultaneously while providing co-benefits.
| Climate Risk | GI Solution | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Heat Island | Trees, green roofs, parks | Evapotranspiration, shading (reduces temp by 2-8°C) |
| Flooding | Bioswales, wetlands, permeable surfaces | Infiltration, detention, natural drainage |
| Drought | Rain gardens, water harvesting | Groundwater recharge, water storage |
| Air Pollution | Urban forests, green walls | Pollutant absorption, particulate capture |
| Sea Level Rise | Mangroves, coastal wetlands | Wave attenuation, erosion control |
Green infrastructure represents a paradigm shift in urban planning, viewing nature not as a luxury but as essential infrastructure providing vital services. It offers cost-effective, resilient solutions to urban challenges including flooding, heat stress, air pollution, and biodiversity loss. As Indian cities face increasing climate risks and rapid urbanization, integrating green infrastructure into planning is crucial for creating sustainable, livable, and resilient urban environments. The concept aligns with India's commitment to sustainable development and climate action under the Paris Agreement.