VIDEO: Copenhagen innovates to combat flooding

Copenhagen is rising to the challenge of a wetter climate with innovative strategies to manage increasing rainfall and prevent flooding. The city anticipates an average of 30% more rainfall in the future, with more frequent and severe storms.

To adapt and thrive, Copenhagen is implementing advanced water management systems to mitigate urban flooding and minimise disruption to daily life.

Newly constructed tunnels beneath the city are engineered to collect excess rainwater during heavy downpours, preventing surface flooding. If these tunnels reach capacity, the water can subsequently be released into the sea nearby.

In the Carlsberg district, overflows can be directed to Enghaven Park, which serves as a dual-purpose reservoir. As water levels increase, the rainwater can flow through a football field, the park’s lake, and then the rose garden. If this is not sufficient, the floodgates can be closed, transforming the park into a temporary reservoir, with a capacity the size of eight Olympic swimming pools.

Additional innovation solutions include rain gardens and permeable pavements, which help absorb rainwater and further reduce the risk of flooding. These measures are crucial for Copenhagen's goal of becoming a #WaterWiseEU city.

The question now is:- what steps is your city taking to enhance water resilience?

Watch the latest Water Matters video below to see how the Danish capital is being a #WaterWiseEU city. 

You can find the full Euronews story here.