What is Source Urbaine?
Source Urbaine is a smart, sustainable solution designed to reuse rainwater in urban environments, benefiting biodiversity and combating the urban heat island effect (UHI). At its core is the patented Urban Rain Garden®, a system that captures rainwater from roofs and roads, cleans it, and makes it available for plants and other uses. This continuous water supply can sustain plant watering for up to three months, creating a permanent reserve that supports urban greenery and cools down heat spots. It’s all about valuing rainwater as a precious resource and promoting nature’s comeback in cities.
Main Benefits of the Urban Rain Garden®
Here’s what makes the Source Urbaine solution stand out:
- Rainwater is captured from existing networks and redirected to nourish the soil, ensuring plants stay hydrated for extended dry periods.
- The system is modular and adaptable, fitting various project sizes and site constraints.
- Installation options are flexible: on the ground, semi-buried, or fully buried, and can happen before, during, or after construction.
- Materials range from steel and concrete to wood and recycled components, keeping the carbon footprint low.
- Smart sensors enable remote monitoring of water management and cooling performance.
- Cost savings come from eliminating the need for manual watering, reducing water, equipment, and labor expenses.
- Designed to meet regulatory requirements and new local urban planning rules (PLUs), aiming for zero rainwater discharge.
Modularity and Adaptability
The Urban Rain Garden® is all about flexibility. Its modular design means it can be tailored to fit the unique needs of any urban project. Whether the site demands a small, prefabricated unit or a larger, on-site assembled structure, the system adapts seamlessly. Plus, it can be installed at any stage of development—before, during, or after construction—which makes it incredibly versatile. The choice of materials also reflects a commitment to sustainability, with options that reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability.
Smart City Integration
Source Urbaine embraces the smart city concept by integrating sensors that allow for remote monitoring of resource management and cooling efficiency. This tech-savvy approach means the system’s performance can be tracked and optimized in real-time. Overflow operations or regulated outflows can be programmed to make the most of the water stored around the Urban Rain Garden®, enhancing its benefits. Plus, it complements other biodiversity and local resource management solutions, creating a holistic urban ecosystem.
Economic Advantages
One of the standout features of Source Urbaine’s solution is its focus on cost-effectiveness. Urban environments often come with congested underground networks—think utilities, infrastructure, parking—and minimizing construction and installation costs is crucial. By cutting out the need for manual watering, the system slashes expenses related to water use, equipment maintenance, and human labor. This makes it not just an eco-friendly choice, but a smart financial one too.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – by managing rainwater efficiently and reducing runoff.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through enhancing urban biodiversity and resilience.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by mitigating urban heat islands and promoting sustainable water use.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – supporting plant life and urban ecosystems.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – using recycled materials and reducing resource waste.
Recognized and Labeled Solution for Resilient Cities
Source Urbaine stands as a recognized and labeled solution, grounded in the belief that resilient cities must innovate in rainwater management. Its commitment to adapting across diverse environments ensures it meets the challenges of urban development head-on. By valuing rainwater and fostering nature’s growth in the city, it offers a practical, effective way to build greener, cooler, and more sustainable urban spaces. It’s not just about managing water—it’s about rethinking how cities live and breathe.
