Author(s): Jo-Fai Chow; Gan Savic; Zoran Kapelan; David Fortune; Netsanet Mebrate
Linked Author(s): David Fortune
Keywords: Multi-criteria evaluation framework; Sustainable drainage design; Key performance indicators; Whole life cost-benefit analysis
Abstract: Conventional drainage design using underground infrastructures such as pipes and storages had been successful with the aid of computer software and well-defined technical procedures. Yet, the approach did not address the sustainability issues. Moving forward, a sustainable approach using green infrastructure as key components in drainage systems is recommended. Using source control, infiltration and evaporation, the new approach aims to be able to provide flow and flood management to at least the same degree as with traditional drainage alone, and to gain additional benefits of pollution reduction, energy reduction and environmental improvement. When compared to the traditional drainage design approach, the new approach lacks the equivalent supporting technical references and tools. Uncertainty in system performance, costs and benefits as well as long-term funding and support from current Government has discouraged many stakeholders from using and adopting green infrastructure for drainage. In order to provide a better decision support tool for the drainage industry, we proposed and developed a systematic, multi-criteria evaluation framework specifically for sustainable drainage design. In this paper, we explain the underlying methodology for framework development, including the structure of the evaluation framework and the quantitative measures used in the framework. We then illustrate how the framework can be applied to the evaluation and comparison of different drainage design options with some examples. The work described here is part of an EPSRC and industry funded research project on developing a better decision support framework for sustainable drainage design.
Year: 2013