Bioengineering structures as an element of surface runoff management in urban areas
https://doi.org/10.22227/1997-0935.2026.6.976-990
Abstract
Introduction. Reports on the flooding of urban streets regularly appear in the mass media. Such flooding is caused by climate change, by the insufficient conveyance capacity of urban drainage systems relative to the stormwater runoff flow rates generated, or by the complete absence of such systems. The subject of the study is surface runoff management, including collection, regulation of discharge to centralized sewerage systems, treatment, and subsequent discharge to receiving water bodies. The aim of the study is to optimize surface runoff management in urban environments through the installation of bioengineering structures.
Materials and methods. The study included an analytical review of regulatory documents and the results of Russian and international research and development activities addressing the management of surface runoff generated in urban environments. Data on the treatment efficiency of bioengineering structures were analyzed to assess the feasibility of discharging treated surface runoff into receiving water bodies.
Results. The main types of bioengineering structures for surface runoff management include rain gardens, vegetated roofs, hydro-botanical sites, bioswales. The amount of runoff depends on the soil thickness, soil composition, and the presence or absence of drainage. The removal efficiency for BOD ranged from 67 to 98 %, for COD — from 70 to 92 %, and for petroleum hydrocarbons — from 40 to 100 %. Using surface runoff for non-potable urban water supply can reduce demand on centralized water supply systems by 30–60 %.
Conclusions. It should be noted that the performance of bioengineered structures in terms of surface runoff retention and treatment should be assessed individually for each design solution in order to prevent adverse environmental impacts.
About the Author
Yu. A. Ryltseva
Moscow State University of Civil Engineering (National Research University) (MGSU)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Yuliya A. Ryltseva — Candidate of Technical Sciences, lecturer of the Department of Water supply and water removal
26 Yaroslavskoe shosse, Moscow, 129337
Scopus: 57214228101
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Review
For citations:
Ryltseva Yu.A. Bioengineering structures as an element of surface runoff management in urban areas. Vestnik MGSU. 2026;21(6):976-990. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.22227/1997-0935.2026.6.976-990
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