In the face of escalating climate change impacts and rapid urbanization, cities worldwide are grappling with intensified flooding and water pollution. Traditional stormwater management systems are struggling to keep up, prompting researchers to explore innovative, nature-based solutions. A recent systematic review published in *Desalination and Water Treatment* (which translates to *Water Purification and Treatment*), led by Vikrant Pachouri, a Research Scholar at the Department of Civil Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India, and the Institute of Engineering and Technology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, India, offers a comprehensive look at Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) and their potential to revolutionize urban water resilience.
SUDS mimic natural hydrologic processes to manage stormwater, reducing flood risks and improving water quality. Pachouri’s review, which analyzed 90 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2025 using the PRISMA methodology, highlights the effectiveness of bio-retention systems, permeable pavements, and green roofs in controlling surface runoff and enhancing water quality. “These systems not only mitigate flood risks but also contribute to climate resilience and water quality improvement,” Pachouri explained. “They offer a holistic approach to urban stormwater management.”
The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies has further enhanced the scalability and efficiency of SUDS. Smart monitoring systems enable real-time data collection and analysis, allowing for proactive management and maintenance. “The development of IoT-based monitoring and smart technologies has significantly improved the performance and cost-effectiveness of SUDS,” Pachouri noted. “This technological advancement is crucial for the large-scale implementation of these systems.”
The review also underscores the need for standardized performance metrics and attractive policy incentives to accelerate the adoption of SUDS in urban planning. “Standardization of SUDS performance and the incorporation of smart technologies are essential for their widespread implementation,” Pachouri emphasized. “Policy incentives can play a pivotal role in encouraging urban developers and policymakers to embrace these innovative solutions.”
The findings of this research have significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in terms of sustainability and climate adaptation. As cities strive to become more resilient and sustainable, the integration of SUDS into urban infrastructure can help mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance water security. “The evidence-based recommendations provided in this review can guide policymakers and urban developers in taking urgent action towards climate adaptation,” Pachouri concluded. “The adoption of SUDS is not just a necessity but an opportunity to build more resilient and sustainable cities.”
As urban areas continue to expand and climate change intensifies, the need for innovative stormwater management solutions becomes increasingly urgent. Pachouri’s research offers a roadmap for the future of urban water resilience, highlighting the potential of SUDS to transform cities into sustainable, climate-resilient hubs. With the right policies and technologies in place, SUDS can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban infrastructure and the energy sector.