Portugal's Urban Planning Fails Under Climate Change

Recent severe storms in Portugal have exposed critical weaknesses in urban planning and preparedness for climate change impacts. Experts criticize years of neglecting the importance of water permeability in city development, leading to disastrous flooding and infrastructure failures. The agglomeration of construction, including car parks and shopping centers, has contributed to soil sealing, reducing the land's ability to absorb water.

Professor Maria Rosário Partidário notes a pervasive disregard for planning that accommodates natural water flow, stating cities have 'no room for water.' This lack of foresight, coupled with building in at-risk areas and insufficient drainage plans, has amplified storm damage. Furthermore, issues like precarious construction and the failure to maintain infrastructure, such as electricity pylons designed for lower wind speeds, underscore a systemic vulnerability.

There is a growing call to reintroduce nature into urban environments, emphasizing the importance of trees and green spaces for water absorption and cooling effects. While Portugal has adopted strategies like Strategic Environmental Assessment, many plans remain on paper or lack proper monitoring. The high cost of preventative measures, like retention basins, is a significant barrier, yet the economic damage from storms far outweighs these investments.

However, success stories like Setúbal's Várzea Urban Park Retention Basin demonstrate the effectiveness of nature-based solutions. This project, funded by EU programs, has successfully protected the city center from flooding by incorporating retention basins, planting trees, and using porous construction materials. Such initiatives highlight the potential for environmental measures to build resilience against extreme weather events.