Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are a response to drainage problems arising from the densities of new building developments and increasing levels of urbanization, both of which have exacerbated the limitations of conventional surface-water drainage measures.

Traditional drainage systems for surface water run-off have been designed to convey rainwater, as rapidly as possible, from where it has fallen to either a soak-away or a watercourse. This method increases the risks of flooding, environmental damage and urban diffuse pollution, as run-off water usually carries contaminants including oils, heavy metals, pesticides, fertilisers, chemicals and other organic matter.

Increasingly, authorities and organisations now require or mandate that developers adopt a sustainable approach to drainage. The implementation of sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) – demonstrated in outline as well as in detailed planning applications and design submissions – is now demanded by authorities, from early site evaluations through to the completion of EIAs. Regulations for new buildings have also been modified to introduce a SUDs protocol, establishing it as part of normal best practice.

Taking the above into account, Greenleaf has designed a SUDS tree-pit system that markedly reduces the velocity and flow rate of surface water run-off in urban areas. To find out more, please view the details for our Arborflow system.