What are SUDS?
Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) is the name given to the Government Legislation that came into effect in October 2008.
SUDS are surface water and drainage management methods and actual devices, designed to tackle excess water in a sustainable and economical way, compared to current conventional systems.
A SUDS system targets quantity, quality and appearance issues when dealing with surface water and drainage.
Why be SUDS Compliant?
Surface water needs to be removed, particularly in built-up areas to prevent flooding. Currently this is achieved by draining the water through our underground piping system. This moves the water away as quickly as possible.
However, drainage systems are now being put under considerable pressure with the UK’s climate changes as rainfall is increasing. It is also important to consider the current environmental challenges that are upon us.
SUDS Systems:
- Manage run off close to where the rain water actually falls
- Control potential pollution
- Reduce risk of flooding
- Are environmentally friendly
- Allow new development in areas where existing sewerage systems are reaching full capacity
SUDS systems are more sustainable than the current drainage system because:
- They manage surface water runoff and flow rates which reduces flooding.
- They can enhance water quality by reducing pollutants.
- They are environmentally and local community friendly.
- SUDS can provide a haven for wildlife (watercourses).
- By using a SUDS system it encourages natural ground water to be replenished.
- SUDS manage surface water runoff by using one or more solutions:
SUDS methods:
- Filter strips and swales
- Pervious surfaces and filter drains
- Infiltration devices
- Basins and ponds
These structures are positioned as close as possible to the location of the falling rain water which decreases runoff.
GeoPave is a SUDS Solution, complying with the SUDS legislation.
Adbruf has developed a SUDS compliant pervious system called GeoPave.
A pervious surface refers to a surface that is either porous or permeable. A porous surface like GeoPave allows water to soak through the surface back into the ground below across the entire surface.
Unlike a permeable surface that is waterproof material, containing voids throughout allowing water to soak through the pattern of voids back into the ground.
A porous surface is highly efficient at reducing run off because the entire surface is allowing water to soak back through.
GeoPave is a resin bound decorative porous surface that:
- Is highly permeable unlike conventional materials which are dense and impermeable
- Deals with storm water by maintaining run off rates from developments
- Is capable of holding the required traffic loads without structural failure occurring.
- Reduces the risk of causing pollution to controlled waters.
- Is in accordance with the recommendations from the CIRIA the Construction Industry Research and Information Association