USING PERMEABLE PAVEMENTS TO REDUCE THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF URBANISATION

Abstract

Permeable interlocking concrete pavements (PICPs) are being increasingly utilised in urban
developments globally to promote stormwater infiltration, reduce catchment runoff volumes and to improve
the quality of downstream receiving waters. Increased interest in permeable pavements from planners,
designers and stormwater managers has led to an increase in permeable pavement research to try to address
some of the common misconceptions and to investigate new research areas. This paper summarises the results
of an international literature review that was undertaken to identify and examine the current state of permeable
pavement research worldwide. The study found that the stormwater management and environmental benefits
of permeable pavements are irrefutable and they clearly reflect the principals of low impact development.
However, there are also misconceptions and barriers to their more widespread implementation which need to
be addressed to ensure their future as an effective LID solution. More targeted research is required to address
some of the outstanding issues with permeable pavements.