A new type of modular tile promises to help reduce flooding in cities hit by increased rainfall due to climate change.
The streets of Copenhagen will be a testing ground for the Climate Tile, which was created by Danish architecture studio Tredje Natur and has been in development since 2014.
Designed to be used alongside or instead of existing sidewalks, the tiles are peppered with a system of holes, tunnels and ridges. These collect and manage rainwater, funnelling it away from sidewalks ? where it can cause damage ? to a preferred use like irrigating nearby plantings.
An active sidewalk with the Climate Tile
The tiles serve as a supplement to existing drainage systems, easing the stress on sewers at a time when some cities are recording record rainfall. Tredje Natur envisions the Climate Tiles existing alongside pocket parks that add to the street life while serving as a flood defence.
"We wish to show the world that climate proofing isn't just hidden technology, but also a chance for everybody to participate in the improvement of our everyday spaces where we understand the city's hidden connections and offer greater life quality," said Tredje Natur project manager Jeppe Ecklon.
"The Climate Tile is a solution that can ease the problems with rainwater that cannot get away, whilst creating more urban nature in our grey streets."
A green sidewalk with the Climate Tile
Water that passes into the tiles through small holes in their surface can be directed t...