In the heart of Istanbul, Nazire Papatya Seçkin, a professor at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, is delving into the past to shape the future of urban drainage systems. Her recent research, published in the Journal of Technology in Architecture, Design and Planning, traces the evolution of urban drainage from the Bronze Age to the present, offering insights that could revolutionize how cities manage water and energy.
Seçkin’s work highlights the enduring importance of efficient drainage systems, which have been crucial for habitable and resilient urban spaces since ancient times. From the sophisticated sewers of ancient Rome to modern-day sustainable drainage systems, the goal has always been the same: to manage rainwater and wastewater effectively. “The common denominator of these systems is the efficient use of natural resources,” Seçkin explains. “This is what forms the basis of the urban drainage technologies we use today.”
As cities grow and climate change intensifies, the demand for sustainable drainage systems is more pressing than ever. These systems, often referred to as Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), are designed to mimic natural water cycles, reducing flood risk, improving water quality, and even mitigating the urban heat island effect. But their benefits extend beyond environmental sustainability. For the energy sector, SuDS present a unique opportunity to reduce carbon footprints and enhance energy efficiency.
Imagine a city where rainwater is not just a nuisance but a resource. SuDS can harvest rainwater for non-potable uses, reducing the demand for treated water and the energy required to pump and treat it. Moreover, by controlling surface water runoff, SuDS can prevent flooding, which can cause power outages and damage to energy infrastructure. “Urban drainage and water management has to meet expectations beyond its historical importance,” Seçkin states. “Concepts like urbanization, climate change, and energy conservation are pushing us to rethink our approach.”
The commercial implications are significant. Energy companies could see reduced operational costs and improved reliability. Urban developers could market properties with built-in resilience and sustainability features, attracting eco-conscious buyers and tenants. Moreover, as governments worldwide implement stricter environmental regulations, cities that adopt SuDS could avoid hefty fines and gain a competitive edge.
Seçkin’s research is not just about looking back; it’s about looking forward. By understanding the past, she aims to inform the future. “Sewerage and drainage systems in cities are very important and will be an important part of future urban planning,” she asserts. Her work is a call to action for urban planners, policymakers, and energy sector professionals to embrace sustainable drainage systems. It’s a reminder that the solutions to our modern problems often lie in our past.
As cities continue to grow and climate change becomes an increasingly urgent issue, Seçkin’s insights could shape the future of urban drainage. Her research, published in the Journal of Technology in Architecture, Design and Planning, offers a roadmap for creating more resilient, sustainable, and energy-efficient cities. The question is, will we take the path she’s laid out?