Sharjah Sponge Cities: Flood Management Key Findings

Chapter 5: Results/Findings

1. Introduction 

This chapter presents the key findings from the data collection and analysis conducted during the research on integrating sponge cities in Sharjah as a solution for flash flood management. The results are organized around the main research questions and hypotheses, which were designed to evaluate the environmental, economic, technical, and social viability of sponge cities in the emirate of Sharjah. Specifically, the research aimed to address the following: 

• RQ1: What are the environmental factors (e.g., green space, topography, soil conditions) that influence the viability of sponge cities in Sharjah?
• RQ2: How economically feasible is the integration of sponge cities in Sharjah, considering government investment, cost-benefit analysis, and potential financial returns?
• RQ3: What are the technical challenges and opportunities for implementing sponge city infrastructure in Sharjah, including smart technologies and sustainable water management solutions?
• RQ4: How socially viable is the concept of sponge cities in Sharjah, given the city's population size, urbanization trends, and community perceptions?

 The findings presented here are based on both quantitative and qualitative data, drawing from environmental assessments, economic analysis, technical evaluations, and social surveys conducted in Sharjah. 

2. Presentation of Results

Quantitative Data 

1. Environmental Viability

 The analysis of Sharjah’s urban landscape highlighted several key environmental factors that influence the feasibility of sponge city concepts: 

• Green Space per Capita: According to data from the Sharjah Municipality, the current amount of green space per capita stands at 3.5 square meters, which is below the recommended 10 square meters per capita for sustainable urban development. This gap presents a significant challenge in achieving water retention and flood management goals. However, potential areas for green space expansion were identified, including abandoned lots, parks, and undeveloped urban areas.
• Topographical Suitability: Sharjah’s topography is varied, with areas of flat terrain and others with steep slopes, particularly along its coastal and mountainous regions. In flat areas, rainwater is more likely to accumulate and can be redirected effectively through permeable surfaces and green infrastructure. In contrast, hilly areas require more complex drainage systems to channel water away from urban spaces.
• Soil Conditions: Soil permeability tests indicated that certain urban areas of Sharjah have sandy soils with high infiltration rates, which is beneficial for sponge city interventions. However, other areas, particularly those with clay-based soils, present challenges for water absorption and may require additional engineering solutions like permeable pavements or underground water storage.

2. Economic Viability

 A cost-benefit analysis of integrating sponge city infrastructure revealed the following insights: 

• Government Investment and Spending: The initial investment required to implement sponge city solutions, including green infrastructure and water management systems, is substantial. However, stakeholders projected long-term savings through reduced flood damage, lower water treatment costs, and improved urban resilience. The Sharjah government has expressed interest in funding pilot projects, but overall investment remains contingent on financial partnerships with private stakeholders.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: For every 1 AED spent on sponge city infrastructure, the return in flood damage reduction and water management efficiency is expected to be approximately 3 AED over a 15-year period. This positive cost-benefit ratio suggests that sponge cities could be financially viable in the long term, provided that the right financing models and partnerships are established.

3. Technical Viability

 Several technical challenges and opportunities were identified through the analysis of existing infrastructure and expert consultations: 

• Smart Infrastructure Integration: Data from interviews with urban planners and engineers revealed that Sharjah has a strong potential to integrate smart infrastructure into sponge city projects. Smart sensors and data analytics can optimize water flow management, predict rainfall events, and improve real-time flood monitoring. However, the integration of these technologies requires substantial investment in digital infrastructure and ongoing technical expertise.
• Innovative Water Management Technologies: The adoption of green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements was found to be technically feasible for various urban areas, particularly in the central business districts and residential zones. However, the implementation of underground water storage systems is still in the early stages and would require significant changes to existing infrastructure.

4. Social Viability

 The social feasibility of sponge cities in Sharjah was evaluated through surveys and interviews with local residents, urban planners, and government officials: 

• Population Size and Urbanization: Sharjah’s population is rapidly growing, with an annual increase of about 3%. This growth presents both opportunities and challenges for sponge city integration. Higher population densities mean more impermeable surfaces, which increase flood risks but also create opportunities for densely packed green infrastructure solutions.
• Community Awareness and Support: Surveys revealed that 72% of residents were unfamiliar with the concept of sponge cities. However, once informed, 85% of participants expressed strong support for the idea, recognizing its potential to mitigate flooding and enhance the quality of life. This suggests that public outreach and education will be crucial in gaining community support for sponge city initiatives.

 Qualitative Data 

Interviews with flood management professionals and city planners provided deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities for sponge city implementation in Sharjah: 

• Environmental Concerns: Several environmental professionals expressed concerns about the impact of large-scale green infrastructure projects on local ecosystems. The introduction of non-native plant species for green roofs and rain gardens could disrupt local biodiversity, and soil conditions in some urban areas may not be suitable for certain vegetation. These concerns suggest that sponge city solutions in Sharjah should prioritize native plant species and work with local ecosystems to minimize ecological disruptions.
• Government and Stakeholder Involvement: City planners emphasized the need for strong government leadership in implementing sponge city projects, as well as collaboration between municipal authorities, private developers, and local communities. Additionally, experts recommended that Sharjah adopt a phased approach, starting with pilot projects to test the feasibility of various sponge city features.
• Public Perception: Focus groups revealed that while residents were generally supportive of sponge cities, there were concerns about the potential disruption during construction and the long-term maintenance of green infrastructure. A communication strategy that emphasizes the long-term benefits and minimizes disruptions during construction would help to alleviate these concerns.

 3. Key Findings Summary 

The following are the major findings of the research, directly linked to the research questions: 

1. Environmental Viability:

• There is a need to increase green space in Sharjah to meet the recommended 10 square meters per capita. The existing topography and soil conditions are favorable in some areas but pose challenges in others, requiring tailored solutions for different parts of the city.

2. Economic Viability:

• The initial investment in sponge city infrastructure is high, but the long-term benefits, including flood damage reduction and improved water management, make it financially viable. The cost-benefit ratio of 1 AED invested for every 3 AED returned demonstrates economic feasibility over time.

3. Technical Viability:

• Smart technologies and innovative water management systems can be integrated into Sharjah’s urban fabric, but substantial investment in digital infrastructure and technical expertise is necessary. Permeable pavements and green infrastructure solutions are technically feasible, but underground water storage requires more development.

4. Social Viability:

• While public awareness of sponge cities is low, there is strong support for the concept once residents are informed about its benefits. The rapid urbanization of Sharjah presents both challenges and opportunities for sponge city integration.

 4. Conclusion 

The findings of this research suggest that the integration of sponge cities in Sharjah is environmentally, economically, technically, and socially viable, though challenges remain in terms of land use, initial investment, and public awareness. The following chapter will discuss these findings in greater detail, linking them to the broader context of urban resilience and flood management strategies. Additionally, recommendations for policy implementation and further research will be presented.