sewer
Newsletter
Boston and New York take different approaches to stormwater management
Boston and New York City are addressing increasing sewer overflows caused by climate change with contrasting strategies: Boston is separating stormwater from sewage, while New York is investing in green infrastructure.
In short:
- Boston is separating its stormwater and sewage systems to reduce overflow into waterways.
- New York City is implementing green infrastructure like rain gardens and storage tanks to manage stormwater.
- Both cities face high costs and complex logistics in upgrading their aging infrastructure.
Key quote:
“You need the infrastructure to move that 5 inches of water out. And that isn't done by any green infrastructure, that is pipes.”
— John Sullivan, chief engineer, Boston Water and Sewer Commission
Why this matters:
Rising sea levels and intense rainfall due to climate change are overwhelming urban sewer systems, leading to pollution and public health risks. As cities struggle to fund infrastructure improvements, outdated systems pose increasing threats to communities.
Related EHN coverage:
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Great Lakes cities sewer designs mean waste in the waters
Climate change is expected to bring more intense storms to the Great Lakes region. That means more raw sewage flowing into the lakes, and a greater likelihood that beaches will be closed due to bacterial contamination.
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New York’s sewer overflows could be contributing to climate change
Research suggests that pollutants from untreated sewage reduce the capacity of local wetlands to absorb carbon and mitigate the impact of greenhouse gases.
Flash floods reignite debate over Toronto’s sewer system
Mayor John Tory faces criticism on campaign trail for decision last year to shelve tax aimed at reducing runoff and funding sewer improvements.
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