What does the treatment of stormwater in the Sustainable Sites category aim to address?

The treatment of stormwater in the Sustainable Sites category primarily aims to address the reduction of pollutants entering local waterways and managing runoff effectively. This focus is crucial because stormwater runoff can carry contaminants such as oil, heavy metals, and sediment from urban areas into nearby water bodies, which can harm ecosystems and degrade water quality. By implementing strategies that manage stormwater—such as green roofs, permeable pavements, and bioretention areas—projects can minimize these negative impacts and promote cleaner local waterways.

While increasing energy efficiency in buildings, enhancing aesthetic value, and promoting biodiversity are important aspects of sustainable design, they are not the primary objectives of stormwater treatment within the Sustainable Sites category. Stormwater management specifically targets the quality and quantity of runoff, and effective treatment practices are essential for protecting water resources and ecosystems.