A Framework for Integrating Green Infrastructure in Urban Flood Management

Thesis Abstract

Urban areas worldwide are increasingly vulnerable to flooding exacerbated by rapid urbanization, inadequate drainage infrastructure, and climate change, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable flood management strategies. Traditional grey infrastructure, while essential, often fails to fully mitigate flood risks and can have adverse environmental impacts. Consequently, integrating green infrastructure—such as permeable pavements, green roofs, urban wetlands, and vegetated swales—has gained prominence as a sustainable complementary approach to enhance stormwater management, improve ecological resilience, and promote urban sustainability. This thesis aims to develop a comprehensive framework for integrating green infrastructure into urban flood management practices, addressing the gaps in current planning paradigms and operational strategies. The specific objectives are threefold first, to identify the key ecological, social, and engineering criteria influencing green infrastructure implementation; second, to evaluate the effectiveness of existing green infrastructure projects in reducing flood risk within urban contexts; and third, to formulate a decision-making framework that guides urban planners and policymakers in deploying green infrastructure for flood resilience. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative case studies, quantitative data analysis, and participatory workshops to ensure a holistic understanding of the subject matter. The research involves a comparative analysis of urban flood mitigation projects in two cities with similar climatic and demographic profiles but differing levels of green infrastructure integration, aiming at a sample size of 50 key informants—including urban planners, environmental engineers, and community stakeholders—selected through purposive sampling. Data collection instruments include semi-structured interviews, structured surveys, and field observations. To ensure instrument validity and reliability, pilot testing and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient analysis are employed. Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis to determine the relationship between green infrastructure adoption and flood mitigation outcomes. Qualitative data will undergo thematic analysis to extract recurring patterns, stakeholder perceptions, and contextual insights. Additionally, the study integrates a spatial analytical approach utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map flood-prone zones and green infrastructure locations, facilitating the spatial assessment of flood mitigation effectiveness. The framework development is guided by the Theory of Urban Resilience and the Green Infrastructure Planning Paradigm, integrating ecological dynamics with socio-technical considerations. Expected findings include a set of critical success factors for green infrastructure implementation, quantifiable evidence of flood risk reduction attributable to designated green infrastructure measures, and a decision-making model that synthesizes ecological, social, and technical criteria for practical application. The anticipated contribution to knowledge lies in bridging the gap between theoretical planning models and on-the-ground implementation, offering an adaptable framework that enhances urban flood resilience through integrated green infrastructure solutions. The study concludes that a systematic, multidisciplinary approach to green infrastructure planning significantly improves urban flood management outcomes and provides a resilient buffer against climate variability. Recommendations include establishing integrated policy frameworks, incentivizing green infrastructure projects, and fostering stakeholder engagement to ensure sustainable adoption. The thesis advocates further research on long-term ecological impacts, cost-benefit analyses, and the scalability of the proposed framework across different urban settings to promote resilient and sustainable urban development.