Enhancing Groundwater Recharge in Urban Landscapes through Forests and Green Infrastructure: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract:

Urban groundwater depletion is an escalating challenge driven by rapid urbanization, impervious surface expansion, and unsustainable water extraction. Nature-based solutions (NbS), particularly urban forests and green infrastructure (GI), offer promising approaches to restoring the hydrological functions of cities and enhancing groundwater recharge. This study investigates the effectiveness of such interventions through a comparative analysis of four global case studies—New York City (USA), Melbourne (Australia), Delhi (India), and Berlin (Germany). Findings reveal that urban forests and GI, when strategically designed and maintained, significantly increase infiltration rates, reduce stormwater runoff, and contribute to localized aquifer replenishment. The study underscores the importance of integrating these nature-based approaches into urban planning and water governance frameworks. It also highlights the role of policy incentives, community engagement, and adaptive management in scaling up NbS for long-term urban water security. By treating ecological infrastructure as functional water assets, cities can move toward more sustainable, climate-resilient groundwater management.