Zhanjiang will utilize parks, wetlands, and drainage systems as "sponges" to collect, filter, and store rainwater in order to prevent urban flooding. [Photo/ciudsrc.com]

Zhanjiang is gearing up to become a "sponge city" in accordance with the city's Specialized Plan on Sponge City Construction (2016-30), which was recently approved by the municipal government.

A "sponge city" is a concept which uses parks, wetlands, and drainage systems to collect, filter, and store rainwater, while taking the excess away from built-up areas.

The initiative aims to solve urban flooding, water pollution, environmental destruction and the wasting of water resources by tightening regulations across 19 indicators under the water safety, environment, ecology, resources and institutional construction categories.

The plan gives specific instructions regarding the construction, renovation and expansion of residential communities, urban roads, parks, squares and underground spaces in four areas: water safety, environment, ecology, and resources.

According to the plan, more than 20 percent of Zhanjiang's urban area will fulfill the goal to become a "sponge" by 2020, eliminating black and odorous water from the city. Over 80 percent of the city's urban area will meet the requirements by 2030.

This will be achieved by the improvement of sewage systems, transformation of rain and sewage diversion pipe networks and decreasing the amount of major pollutants in rivers. The construction of green roofs, greenbelts, permeable pavements, and rainwater gardens are also high on the agenda.