Engineering Earth’s Tomorrow

As a student in the Architecture pathway at John A. Dubiski Career High School, I have come to realize that architecture and engineering are intrinsically linked, and together they play a crucial role in shaping our environment. However, one of the most pressing issues facing these industries today is the growing problem of pollution, particularly stormwater pollution. This pollution is largely attributed to the construction of man-made infrastructures such as buildings, sidewalks, and parking lots. These impervious surfaces prevent rainwater from naturally soaking into the ground, leading to runoff that carries pollutants into our streams and water bodies.

In this essay, I will propose a solution to mitigate this environmental challenge by increasing awareness of stormwater pollution and creating attractions that serve both functional and educational purposes.

Understanding the Impact of Stormwater Pollution

The issue of stormwater pollution first caught my attention through the frequent observation of garbage and waste being dumped into our local creeks. These careless human actions have significantly polluted our environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), stormwater runoff often contains nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants from fertilizers, as well as pet and yard waste. The problem is exacerbated by the abundance of impervious surfaces in urban areas. Unlike natural terrain, where water is absorbed into the soil and filtered, cities often direct water across surfaces until it reaches a large body of water. This runoff can overwhelm sewer systems, which are only capable of processing a limited amount of water before unfiltered water is discharged, further polluting water quality and harming microorganisms such as plankton and algae (National Geographic). These microorganisms are vital components of aquatic ecosystems, and their destruction can have cascading effects throughout the food chain. Therefore, it is imperative that we address and take action on this issue to protect our environment for future generations.

Proposed Solution: Pervious Concrete and Waterworks Attractions

To combat the problem of stormwater pollution, I propose promoting the use of pervious concrete, which allows water to be absorbed through it, thereby reducing the volume of runoff entering our waterways. As reported by Parks Smart, pervious concrete can absorb up to five gallons of water per minute, significantly alleviating the burden on traditional drainage systems. However, pervious concrete alone may not be sufficient to prevent all stormwater from reaching and polluting water bodies. To complement this solution, I suggest the creation of fountains designed to collect and gradually deposit runoff water into nearby soil. By designing these fountains as attractive waterworks, we can draw public attention to the issue of stormwater pollution and educate people about its impact.

Creating these waterworks as attractions offers several benefits. First, they serve as visual reminders of the importance of managing stormwater, encouraging visitors to learn about the issue and take action in their own communities. Moreover, these attractions have the potential to generate funds for further environmental initiatives by drawing tourists and visitors, thereby increasing awareness and support for environmental causes. One potential challenge is the increased foot traffic and potential disruption to local residents, but this can be mitigated by constructing fountains in existing paved areas, minimizing their impact on natural environments.

Integrating Design Skills and Environmental Awareness

Over nearly four years in the architecture pathway, I have developed proficiency in design programs such as Sketch-Up and AutoCad, which I can use to bring my vision of sustainable infrastructure to life. Architecture adheres to the principle of "form follows function," allowing me to design efficient parking lots using pervious concrete and incorporating small drainage systems connected to modified fountains with captivating water displays. My exposure to the engineering pathway has equipped me with the technical knowledge necessary to design effective waterworks, utilizing both gravity and mechanical pumps to create dynamic water patterns and shapes.

Conclusion for Sustainable Development

In conclusion, by implementing pervious concrete and constructing waterworks attractions, we can effectively address the issue of stormwater pollution while raising awareness and fostering community engagement. It is crucial that we take responsibility for protecting our environment, not only for ourselves but for future generations. By integrating design innovation and environmental education, we can create a sustainable future that values and preserves our natural resources. The time to act is now, and it is up to us to lead the charge in combating stormwater pollution and promoting sustainable development.

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