Tree-Integrated SuDS

Integrating trees into sustainable drainage systems to manage surface water while delivering long-term urban greening.
GreenBlue Urban provides infrastructure and technical guidance that allows trees to function as part of effective surface water management strategies.

The Challenge

Managing surface water in urban environments is becoming increasingly important as development intensifies and rainfall patterns change.

At the same time, cities are increasingly seeking to increase tree cover while managing surface water more effectively.

Delivering both objectives within constrained urban spaces presents several challenges:

Limited space for drainage infrastructure

Restricted soil volumes for trees

Competing demands for underground utilities

Managing runoff and supporting tree health

Integrating trees into sustainable drainage systems offers an effective way to address drainage and urban greening objectives.

Designing Tree- Based SuDS

Tree-based SuDS combine tree planting infrastructure with sustainable drainage principles.

This approach allows rainwater to be captured, filtered and stored within tree pits and surrounding soil volumes.

Key benefits include:

Reduction of surface water runoff

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Improved stormwater storage and infiltration

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Enhanced urban greening and canopy cover

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Improved urban cooling and environmental quality

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When designed correctly, tree pits can form an integral part of a wider sustainable drainage strategy.

Tree-based SuDS combine urban tree planting with sustainable drainage infrastructure, allowing green and blue infrastructure to work together.

Technical Guidance and Support

Successful tree-based SuDS require careful coordination between tree planting design and drainage infrastructure.

GreenBlue Urban provides technical guidance to help designers integrate tree planting systems within SuDS strategies

Support can include:

  • Tree pit sizing and soil volume guidance.
  • Integration with drainage systems and attenuation strategies
  • Coordination with highways and utilities.
  • Practical installation guidance for contractors.

This support helps ensure tree-based drainage systems function
effectively while supporting long-term tree health.

Infrastructure Used in Tree- Based SuDS

Delivering tree-based sustainable drainage systems typically incorporates several infrastructure components.

These elements allow tree pits to contribute to surface water management while supporting long-term tree growth.

Supported by Research

Independent studies provide evidence supporting the performance of our SuDS systems, providing confidence in their effectiveness.

Expertise Proven in Practice

Case studies demonstrating tree-based SuDS in streets, public realm and development projects.

Design & Construction

blog post 1

Im Rahmen des kontinuierlichen Engagements von GreenBlue Urban zur Weiterentwicklung seiner Produkte und Lösungen wurde

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Stormwater Management

Blog post 2

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Technical Guidance for Designers and Engineers

CPDs, design guidance and technical documentation used during specification and project delivery.

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