Sometimes, when it rains, it floods. But a solution to help prevent flooding issues, especially in urban areas, could be right under our feet.

Permeable pavement is a type of porous surface made up of tiny open pores that allow water to soak through. Concrete, asphalt, and open pavers are all classed as types of permeable pavement often used for sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways.

By allowing water to soak through, this kind of pavement helps reduce surface water and runoff. Instead, the water filters through the gravel or stone and is stored in reservoirs beneath the surface where it is slowly released into the soil below. 

During stormy seasons, these are handy at storing excess water and are also known as green pavement, thanks to the clever way in which the stone and gravel act as a natural filter for any pollutants in the water.

According to the Upper Midwest Water Science Center, the number of cities and urban buildings replacing natural landscapes is having a significant impact on water drainage across the world.

Keep reading on thecooldown.com