Conceptual frameworks for evaluating green infrastructure in urban stormwater management

This paper presents a comprehensive theoretical framework for evaluating the effectiveness of green infrastructure in urban stormwater management. Sustainable stormwater management practices are essential as cities face increasing challenges from climate change; population growth; and urbanization. Green infrastructure; which includes solutions like green roofs; permeable pavements; and bioswales; offers significant environmental; economic; and social benefits. However; existing evaluation methods often fail to account for the full range of these benefits; particularly in diverse urban settings. The proposed framework integrates environmental; economic; and social dimensions to provide a holistic assessment of green infrastructure projects. By incorporating criteria such as runoff reduction; cost efficiency; social equity; and community engagement; the framework supports more informed decision-making for urban planners and policymakers. The adaptability of this framework to different urban environments; from densely populated cities to suburban areas and varied climatic regions; ensures its broad applicability. The paper also highlights the need for future research to empirically validate the framework's components and refine its metrics to enhance its utility for sustainable urban development.