How do ancient Chinese technologies help address today's climate and disaster risks?

Source(s): Asian Development Bank (ADB)

  • Built by ancient Chinese people over 900 years ago, the Fushougou drainage system solves flooding and waterlogging issues in Ganzhou City.
  • The system’s main structures include open channels, culverts, ponds, and water windows. These parts cooperate with the 8km-long city wall seamlessly, forming an integrated flood management and drainage system.
  • The Fushougou Drainage System is a model of sponge city built by ancient Chinese people. It is truly a masterpiece for the world’s human ingenuity.

Build with Nature in the PRC: Integrated Fushougou Drainage System Built by Ancient Chinese People

The video presents the ancient Chinese wisdom behind the Fushougou drainage system built over 900 years ago and still in use today. The Fushougou Drainage System manifests the Chinese philosophy in “respecting and staying in harmony with the nature”. Its main structures include open channels, culverts, ponds, and water windows. These parts cooperate with the 8km-long city wall seamlessly, forming an integrated flood and drainage management system.

The system adopts nature-based solutions and the sponge city concept in managing sewage, stormwater and floods in an innovative way. Its design well integrates gray and green infrastructures, fosters urban ecosystem, improves the micro-climate and people’s wellbeing. The Fushougou Drainage System is a model of sponge city built by ancient Chinese people over 900 years ago, which is still benefiting people today. It is a masterpiece for the world’s human ingenuity.  

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Hazards Flood
Themes Water
Country and region Asia
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