Green infrastructure reduces rain problems in Beira
In this project, we want to tackle one of the most urgent water challenges in Beira: the annual flooding of residential areas due to extremely intense rainfall. There is no space in these areas for large retention basins (which are classified as 'grey infrastructure') and so there is an urgent need for alternative solutions. We are trying to make the shift from a grey solution to a greener approach. The project activities are being closely coordinated with other ongoing projects in Beira such as the Beira Master Plan and the World Bank project for the rehabilitation and extension of the drainage system in Beira.
Exploring, designing and calculating options
The aim of the project is to allow stakeholders in Beira to see for themselves, understand and gain confidence (seeing is believing) in the idea that green infrastructure helps them to tackle their water difficulties and other problems. Working with one another (as stakeholders) and with help from us, they will first engage in the exploration, design and calculation of options for their own area. During that process, they will use the ecosystem-services approach, system knowledge and instruments such as the Adaptation Support Tool.
Appealing alternative to grey infrastructure
In addition, our project aims to successfully demonstrate the innovative instruments and approaches we have developed in order to help stakeholders to change their mind set: to see green infrastructure as a highly appealing alternative to the exclusive use of grey infrastructure for managing water problems in urban areas. A successful, concrete demonstration of this kind will encourage others to invest in green infrastructure as well: in Beira, in other cities in Mozambique, Africa and other countries where our consortium is already active.
Deltares is the lead partner and, in this project, we are working with Alterra, Witteveen+Bos and Wissing as the Dutch partners and the Catholic University of Beira in Mozambique as the local partner. We are conducting the project in close collaboration with all relevant, local stakeholders in Beira, including the municipal authority of Beira. The mayor is directly involved.
The added value of the collaboration is that the consortium partners contribute complementary knowledge and expertise: water knowledge (Deltares), green knowledge (Alterra), engineering and upscaling (WiBo), and urban design and upscaling (Wissing).
The Partners for Water subsidy makes it possible to implement this demonstration.
