Two fundamental questions shape every major infrastructure project: Can we afford to build it? And can we afford to operate it? As climate change intensifies and urban populations grow, conventional solutions to water management are becoming less viable – both economically and environmentally. The challenge now is not just about managing existing systems but rethinking infrastructure from the ground up.
Across Australia, New Zealand and beyond, water resilience is at the heart of urban sustainability. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, coupled with aging infrastructure, means we need to adopt new approaches to managing stormwater, reducing sewage overflows and creating livable, green cities.
The transition from grey infrastructure – concrete pipes, tunnels and treatment plants –to integrated blue-green solutions is no longer optional; it’s a necessity.
Events like Tropical Cyclone Alfred in South East Queensland demonstrated the challenges posed by climate variability. Heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding placed significant pressure on existing infrastructure, reinforcing the importance of integrating nature-based solutions to enhance resilience and mitigate future risks. As extreme weather events become more frequent, the urgency to build more resilient communities continues to grow.
Cities around the world are beginning to embrace blue-green infrastructure – nature-based solutions that work with, rather than against, the water cycle. These projects aim to slow, store and treat water naturally, reducing the burden on traditional sewer systems while delivering multiple co-benefits.
We integrate wetlands, mangroves and green infrastructure into urban and rural landscapes to protect water, support biodiversity and enhance climate resilience. By working with nature, we ensure that communities across ANZ benefit from sustainable, adaptive and long-term water solutions that safeguard both people and the environment.
From our work around the world, there are three key lessons that can be applied to Australia and New Zealand:
The success of these projects’ hinges on collaboration. Water utilities, urban planners, landscape architects, ecologists and engineers must work together to break down silos and integrate water-sensitive designs into future developments. Public engagement is also critical – when communities see the tangible benefits of blue-green spaces, they become advocates for further investment in sustainable infrastructure.
As Cathy Crawley, our ANZ nature-based solutions lead, explains:
“Nature provides the best solutions. By integrating blue-green infrastructure into our urban and rural landscapes, we’re not only protecting water but enhancing biodiversity, supporting community well-being, and increasing climate resilience. Our challenge is to work with nature, not against it, to deliver infrastructure that safeguards both people and the environment.”
Additionally, Simon Parsons, director of environment, planning and assurance at Scottish Water, highlights the importance of long-term thinking:
“We must rethink how we design urban spaces, recognising that traditional grey infrastructure alone won’t be enough. By embedding nature-based solutions, we can create cities that are not just resilient but also more liveable and sustainable.”
The transition from grey to blue-green infrastructure represents a paradigm shift in urban water management. By embracing nature-based solutions, cities can build resilience against climate change, reduce operational costs and enhance quality of life for their residents.
The challenge ahead is not just technical – it’s about leadership, collaboration and a willingness to rethink traditional approaches. The need for change is clear, and the opportunity is immense.
This article was first published by AECOM. You can find the original here.