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Water retention measures are multi-functional measures that aim to protect water resources using natural means and processes. These measures can contribute to reducing the risk of floods and water scarcity and drought while also improving the status of surface and ground water bodies. Water retention measures can support the achievement of the goals of a range of EU policies, including those for surface water, groundwater and coastal management, nature conservation, agriculture, forestry, urban water manage- ment, disaster risk management, green growth and climate change mitigation and adaptation. This article presents water retention measures suitable for application in urban areas. Infiltration of rainwater, taking into account the suitability of local conditions, appears to be the most environmentally suitable solution of rainwater drainage. The connection of conventional method of draining rainwater through sewer systems and infiltration of rainwater appears to be the most suitable drainage concept for sustainable cities. Water retention measures are multi-functional measures that aim to protect water resources using natural means and processes. These measures can contribute to reducing the risk of floods and water scarcity and drought while also improving the status of surface and ground water bodies. Water retention measures can support the achievement of the goals of a range of EU policies, including those for surface water, groundwater and coastal management, nature conservation, agriculture, forestry, urban water manage- ment, disaster risk management, green growth and climate change mitigation and adaptation. This article presents water retention measures suitable for application in urban areas. Infiltration of rainwater, taking into account the suitability of local conditions, appears to be the most environmentally suitable solution of rainwater drainage. The connection of conventional method of draining rainwater through sewer systems and infiltration of rainwater appears to be the most suitable drainage concept for sustainable cities.
infiltration, rainwater management, urban areas
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