Inside Climate News: Why New York City Is Spending Millions on ‘Bluebelts’

When rain falls, light showers can usually be handled by the complex network of sewer pipes that run beneath the NYC. But during heavy downpours, water can accumulate, posing a danger to the residents and their homes, especially if they live in basement apartments. Around 30 years ago, on Staten Island, the city tried something new to address flooding — "bluebelts". Often connected to a network of storm sewers, these drainage systems — usually wetlands and ponds — slow floodwaters, act as barriers during storms and sequester pollutants, directly reducing flood risk,helping protect homes by controlling water flow, and returning cleaner water to the sea. More STORY.