Projects

Goal of the Project

The project aims to explore and define key design principles for flood-resilient landscapes, focusing on the multi functionality of hybrid flood risk management (FRM) measures in riverine systems. With climate change intensifying flood risks and drought periods, the project seeks to integrate nature-based solutions (NbS)—such as wetlands, floodplain restoration, and riparian buffers—with traditional engineering measures like levees and retention basins. This research will assess how these hybrid solutions not only mitigate flood risks but also provide ecological, social, and economic co-benefits, including biodiversity enhancement, carbon sequestration, and improved water quality. The project emphasizes the importance of adaptive, ecologically integrated, and community-centred design frameworks for sustainable flood resilience planning. By synthesising insights from a comprehensive literature review, expert interviews, and stakeholder workshops, the project seeks to provide a structured understanding of best practices, performance metrics, and future directions for hybrid flood risk management strategies.

Scientific Motivation

Flood risk management is increasingly challenged by the dual threats of high-flow floods and prolonged droughts due to climate change. Traditional flood control measures, while effective, often overlook ecological and social dimensions. Recent studies highlight the need for multi-functional landscapes that provide flood mitigation alongside environmental and societal benefits. Nature-based solutions offer promising avenues, but their performance under variable conditions, particularly during low-flow periods, remains underexplored. This project addresses these gaps by investigating the resilience of hybrid flood management solutions across different hydraulic and morphological conditions. By leveraging ecological design principles and integrating perspectives from experts in hydrology, landscape architecture, and urban planning, the research aims to contribute to a holistic understanding of flood-resilient landscapes. The motivation lies in fostering sustainable, adaptive flood management practices that enhance ecosystem services, support local communities, and ensure long-term water availability and habitat stability.

Case Study

The project employs case studies of riverine systems with diverse hydraulic and morphological conditions to analyse best and worst practices in hybrid flood risk management. Specific river systems that incorporate both nature-based and traditional engineering measures are examined to highlight successful approaches and challenges. These case studies provide practical insights into the design, implementation, and performance of hybrid flood resilience measures, demonstrating their multi-functional benefits and adaptability across different environmental and socio-economic contexts.

Expected Outcomes

• A comprehensive literature review dataset on hybrid flood risk management measures.
• A framework for assessing the performance of hybrid FRM solutions.
• Case study analyses highlighting best and worst practices.
• Design principles for multifunctional flood-resilient landscapes.
• Recommendations for integrating NbS with technical measures in riverine flood management.