Stormwater poses several risks to the immediate environment, including uncontrolled flooding, artificial surges to the water table, and pollution of groundwater and adjacent waterways. Running water picks up mineral-based dust, organic matter and hydrocarbons, which can create peak pollution levels after dry periods. Furthermore, if the flow of stormwater is not regulated before discharge into public networks, it can saturate pipelines and cause flooding. As a result, dealing with stormwater effectively is a crucial issue for every community.
Because we were aware of the environmental risks at stake, Prologis, in partnership with the Seine Normandy Water Authority (Agence de l’Eau Seine Normandie), implemented an innovative stormwater-by-plot management system at its Moissy 2 Park, a site formerly used as a PSA Peugeot facility. Situated outside of Paris, Moissy 2 Park stands as an example of turning an environmental wasteland into a hub of economic activity.
What does stormwater management by plot mean?
Stormwater management involves diverting runoff from roofs and roadways toward ditches, hollow green areas and infiltration loops near car parks and roadways. These green spaces are planted with varietals that absorb pollutants, limiting the extent to which these pollutants enter the subsoil and replicating the natural water cycle as much as possible.
What is the advantage of this type of management?
Advantages include reducing the congestion of the public wastewater network and disruption to water table replenishment, plus enhancing landscaping.
Could this system be implemented on other Prologis sites in the future?
Yes. Given the success of this first experiment, we, as members of the International Biodiversity Property Council, plan to implement similar stormwater management systems on future sites.