Subject is to be informed about the following details:
In an effort to combat the effects of climate change and promote sustainable urban development, the Emschergenossenschaft and Zukunftsinitiative Klima.Werk have launched a funding program called "Emscher-Lippe Climate.Adaptation" (ELKA). This initiative encourages homeowners and businesses in the Emscher region to implement the sponge city principle on their properties.
The sponge city principle, a concept aimed at managing urban water more efficiently, offers several benefits. It contributes to urban cooling during heatwaves through evaporation, helping to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures. Moreover, it protects properties against heat, drought, and potential flooding due to heavy rain.
Renovations to implement this principle can be costly, with several thousand euros required for a single property. However, the ELKA funding program offers subsidies to offset these costs, making it more accessible for private individuals and businesses.
One of the key aspects of the sponge city principle is the disconnection of sealed surfaces from the sewage system. Above-ground infiltration systems, such as trenches, can be integrated into gardens without restricting their use, providing a practical solution for property owners. These systems also promote biodiversity when planted with native plants.
Homeowners can also opt for water-permeable materials for their driveways, allowing rain to infiltrate directly into the ground. Similarly, the Emschergenossenschaft encourages the use of water-permeable materials for house and garage roofs.
Structural adaptations, like green roofs or infiltration trenches, can balance the unequal distribution of precipitation exacerbated by climate change. These adaptations not only help reduce environmental risks but also improve living conditions and promote sustainable development locally.
The long-term benefits of these adaptations are significant. They can lead to lower sewage fees for homeowners and businesses in the long run, making them a cost-effective solution for urban climate resilience.
Furthermore, the sponge city principle aims to store precipitation for plant irrigation, reducing reliance on tap water. This is particularly important during heavy rain, when overwhelmed sewage systems can lead to water scarcity, followed by heatwaves drying gardens.
In conclusion, the Emscher-Lippe Climate.Adaptation (ELKA) funding program offers a practical and sustainable solution for urban climate adaptation in the Emscher region. By implementing the sponge city principle, private individuals and businesses can contribute to flood prevention, greenery projects, and improved urban quality of life, all while reducing their environmental footprint and long-term costs.
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