Slowing Water Switzerland – catchment modelling for future cooling
"Slowing Water" reduces runoff in Swiss municipal catchments by modelling the benefits of nature-based solutions (NbS). We provide data-driven support to help municipalities plan and implement measures that slow, store, and infiltrate rainfall - improving flood and drought resilience while cooling urban areas and restoring natural water cycles.
What issue does your project address, and why do you want to tackle it?
Climate change is increasing runoff, floods, and droughts. Sealed surfaces and degraded soils worsen the impact. We tackle this by promoting NbS that restore water cycles and climate resilience. Municipalities often lack the data and support to act - we
bridge this gap with models, facilitation, and practical guidance.
What is your project about and how does it make Switzerland water-wise?
Slowing Water models catchment-wide NbS, such as green roofs, rain gardens, and rewetted soils. These measures reduce runoff, increase evapotranspiration, recharge groundwater, and cool urban areas. By showing their costs and benefits, we enable
municipalities to take climate-wise action and become more water-resilient.
How do you measure your project's success?
We measure the successes through reductions in runoff volume and peak flow during storms, increased infiltration and retention capacity, improved water quality indicators and NVDI or another vegetation index. Additional metrics include the number of implemented BGI projects, municipal engagement, and integration of NbS into local planning. Surveys and stakeholder feedback help assess awareness and longterm commitment to sustainable water management.
Who are the people behind the project and what is your secret to a great collaboration?
The project team includes urban water researchers, municipal planners, and environmental engineers working closely with local authorities and communities. Our secret to great collaboration is wide and diverse expertise, mutual trust, clear communication, and co-designing solutions that align scientific knowledge with local needs. We foster inclusive dialogue, share responsibilities, and build long-term partnerships to ensure sustainable and practical outcomes.
