In the face of escalating climate change and rapid urbanization, cities worldwide are grappling with intensified floods and water pollution, pushing traditional stormwater management systems to their limits. A recent systematic review published in *Desalination and Water Treatment* (which translates to *Water Purification and Treatment*) offers a beacon of hope, highlighting the transformative potential of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) in enhancing urban water resilience. Led by Vikrant Pachouri, a Research Scholar at the Department of Civil Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, and the Institute of Engineering and Technology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, the research provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in SUDS technologies, their performance, and policy frameworks.
The study, which reviewed 90 peer-reviewed articles published between 2014 and 2025 using the PRISMA methodology, underscores the effectiveness of SUDS in mitigating flood risks, improving water quality, and bolstering climate resilience. “SUDS mimic natural hydrologic processes, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional drainage systems,” explains Pachouri. “By integrating bio-retention systems, permeable pavements, and green roofs, cities can significantly reduce surface runoff and enhance water quality.”
One of the most compelling findings of the review is the role of smart technologies in scaling up SUDS. The integration of IoT-based monitoring and smart technologies has not only improved the efficiency of these systems but also made them more adaptable to urban environments. “The development of smart SUDS is a game-changer,” says Pachouri. “It allows for real-time monitoring and adaptive management, making these systems more cost-effective and scalable.”
The commercial implications for the energy sector are substantial. As cities increasingly adopt SUDS, there is a growing market for innovative technologies and materials that enhance the performance and durability of these systems. This includes smart sensors, advanced filtration materials, and sustainable construction practices. Moreover, the integration of SUDS into urban planning can lead to significant cost savings in flood management and water treatment, freeing up resources for other critical infrastructure projects.
The review also highlights the need for standardized performance metrics and attractive policy incentives to accelerate the adoption of SUDS. “Policy frameworks play a crucial role in driving the uptake of SUDS,” notes Pachouri. “By providing clear guidelines and incentives, governments can encourage urban developers to integrate these systems into their projects.”
The research offers evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and urban developers, advocating for urgent action in climate adaptation through the extensive use of SUDS. As cities continue to face the challenges of climate change and urbanization, the insights from this study could shape the future of urban water management, paving the way for more resilient and sustainable cities.
Published in *Desalination and Water Treatment*, this systematic review not only advances the discourse on urban water resilience but also provides a roadmap for the energy sector to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable urban drainage solutions.