Enhancing Urban Water Quality with Green Infrastructure – A Study in Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Abstract

Green roofs and living walls are effective tools for addressing water management challenges in urban environ - ments. These green infrastructure elements can mitigate rainwater runoff, reduce water contamination, and support more sustainable flow regulation. They also contribute to temperature regulation and provide habitat support for urban wildlife. Careful plant selection can maximize the positive impact of green infrastructure, reducing pollution levels and improving water quality in densely populated urban areas with extreme weather conditions. The research presented in this article raises awareness about potential challenges and risks associated with green infrastructure, such as pollutant release. Understanding the factors that influence water quality enables improved man - agement practices and sustainable urban planning. The article also identifies various plant species with remarkable contaminant retention capabilities, particularly several metals such as calcium and sodium. These findings propose the design of effective green infrastructure solutions. This study confirms that green infrastructure effectively filters pollutants from precipitation water, making it suitable for injection into underground water wells. Overall, the research provides valuable scientific insights for urban water management, fostering eco-friendly and resilient cities in semi-arid climates.