Urban Stormwater and Groundwater Quality: Pathways, Risks, and Green Infrastructure Solutions
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The development of urban areas and the proliferation of impervious surfaces have significantly altered natural hydrological cycles, resulting in an increase in stormwater runoff and substantial risks to groundwater quality. This review synthesizes current research on the transport mechanisms of stormwater contaminants, including toxic elements, nutrients, pathogens, and emerging pollutants such as microplastics and pharmaceuticals, into aquifers. This study analyzes the physicochemical and biological processes that affect pollutant mobility and retention in urban soils, emphasizing the vulnerability of groundwater systems, particularly in areas with permeable soils and shallow water tables. The article evaluates a range of green infrastructure (GI) and low-impact development (LID) strategies—including rain gardens, bioswales, infiltration basins, constructed wetlands, and urban forestry—to assess how effectively they can mitigate stormwater pollution and improve groundwater protection. Case studies from North America illustrate the practical implementation and performance of GI systems, emphasizing the importance of site-specific design, monitoring, and adaptive management. The review also discusses global policy frameworks and community engagement strategies that support sustainable stormwater management. Ultimately, it advocates for an integrated, multidisciplinary approach that combines engineering, ecological science, and public policy to safeguard groundwater resources in the face of climate variability and urban expansion.
Source: Environments
Author: Amir Motlagh
Institution: California State University, Sacramento
Language: English
Subfield: Environmental Engineering
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,172
OpenAlex ID: W4416414291