watersensitive

Watersensitive is an adjective describing systems, organisms, processes, or policies that are influenced by water availability, quality, or dynamics. In environmental planning and design, it is closely associated with water-sensitive design (also termed water-sensitive urban design), an approach that integrates hydrological considerations into land-use planning to reduce flood risk, enhance water security, and support healthy ecosystems. The aim is to align built and natural systems with local water cycles rather than fighting them.

Key principles include maintaining a water balance on site, reducing impervious cover, infiltrating and treating runoff, harvesting rainwater for non-potable uses, and reusing greywater where appropriate. Infrastructure examples include permeable pavements, bioswales, rain gardens, stormwater wetlands, green roofs, and constructed wetlands that mimic natural processes. In urban contexts, such design can lower peak flows, improve water quality, enhance biodiversity, and create more resilient public spaces.

In ecology and agriculture, watersensitive systems respond to changes in rainfall, groundwater levels, or surface water and may require adaptive management to sustain species and productivity. In policy terms, watersensitive approaches are supported by planning guidelines and incentives that promote integrated water management, climate adaptation, and watershed rehabilitation.