Evaluating the infiltration capacity of degraded vs. rehabilitated urban greenspaces: Lessons learnt from a real-world Italian case study

Climate change (higher frequency and intensity of precipitation events) land use (urbanization reducing soil drainage capacity) are increasingly causing stormwater problems globally, especially in cities. Nature-based solutions such as urban greenspace rehabilitation programs gaining considerable attention for restoring retention capacity protecting cities against increasing flood risk. However, a better understanding how effective measures practice is needed to enable promote their adoption across settings. To this end, study, we assess the effect terms compaction, vegetation cover unsaturated hydraulic conductivity by analysing results an infiltration measurement campaign conducted wide range real-world greenspaces (from recently rehabilitated, poorly maintained, down highly degraded) Italian city Milan, one most urbanized areas Europe. Our show that varies significantly examined greenspaces, due differences time from rehabilitation, compaction cover. Specifically, find highest obtained after approximately 5 years since implementation measures, which can be explained (i) introduced develop root systems, (ii) matrix coherent structure allows stable connections between pores thus strengthening preferential water pathways. Finally, our study shows that, absence maintenance, may decrease rapidly about 9–12 years. These findings provide useful information supporting planning nature-based practice, will become important protect climate impacts widespread urbanization going forwards. • Soil increases The In 9-12 Vegetation flow improved