Sponge city renovation projects improve residents' life quality

Kuiwen district in Weifang, Shandong province, has been actively implementing sponge city renovations, successfully completing 56 projects to date. 

The sponge city initiative, launched to adapt to climate change, aims to reduce urban flooding by constructing facilities designed to absorb and capture rainwater for future use. 

A prime example is the Liyuan community in the central urban area. To address the issue of water accumulation during rainy days, Kuiwen district integrated urban renewal and old residential area renovation requirements, employing advanced sponge city construction techniques to upgrade the community's infrastructure. Additionally, Kuiwen added a children's activity area and a fitness zone to the community's central square, resolving the lack of recreational areas for residents.

The renovated central square of the Liyuan community boasts increased green space and offers more recreational facilities for residents. [Photo by Li Chenfei/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Throughout the sponge city renovation projects, facilities such as rain gardens, permeable pavements, and sunken green spaces are ubiquitous. These features significantly enhance rainwater collection, storage, and transmission, allowing for effective rainwater utilization and mitigating urban flooding during the rainy season. Kuiwen district's sponge city initiatives not only focus on preventing urban flooding but also beautify communities and schools, creating a comfortable and natural living environment for residents. This has effectively enhanced the happiness and sense of security among the district's residents. (Edited by Du Xiaping)