The research and innovation activities within StopUP are centred around six case studies in six different countries and urban catchments (see Figure below). Information from each case study was collected regarding catchment characteristics and environmental protection targets.
- A database was developed, including information about the catchment characteristics, water quantity (precipitation data and flow measurements) and water quality.
- A pollution and pollution-induced risk profiling of the urban catchments was subsequently set up with this data.
- Furthermore, comprehensive sampling campaigns were carried out at the case studies to determine pollutant types and concentrations.
- A standard protocol for off-line analysis was created to support the uniformity of the monitoring and to provide guidelines for future actions.
- For in-line analysis, an operational sensor and sampling system was developed, capable of measuring parameters such as water level, turbidity, and electrical conductivity in high frequency.
The data gained regarding the pollution characteristics in the different case studies was used within StopUP for pollution modelling. A novel simplified model for surface runoff quantity and quality estimation was therefore developed for small catchments and a model calibration regarding turbidity was performed. For the case studies models were developed to described either the respective catchment area or specific components (e.g. wetlands) with different degrees of freedom.
The integration of possible future seasonal variations was also investigated for selected case studies.
In addition, a web-based interception tool was developed that measures the volume reduction capability of SuDS systems, which is used as a surrogate for the reduction of water pollution impact on the receiving water environment. The tool is openly available at: The StopUp SuDS Tool - stopup.eu
As StopUP also developed, tested and assessed innovative strategies and technologies for pollution prevention, pilot plants of various technical approaches and constructed and operated. In total, six pilot plants including approaches for decentralized and centralized sewer systems were installed at the case studies. The results from the pilots provided a wealth of data on the removal performance regarding a broad spectrum of water quality parameters.
The collection of data regarding these technologies and different scenarios has been used to conduct life cycle assessments (LCAs) as well as cost assessment. Mayor dissemination activities have taken place through which planners, operators, and authorities can be supported to make comprehensible, sustainable decisions. The outcomes of urban runoff pollution characterisation, pollution modelling and mitigation measures can feed into urban runoff water quality management plans (URUQ-MAPs), which are particularly relevant in the context of the revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD).
