A chapter review: ICE manual of blue-green infrastructure

ABSTRACT

This research note is a review of Chapter 1 of the new Manual of Blue-Green Infrastructure published by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) in 2023. The publication of the manual by a leading civil engineering professional body is considered a significant milestone, suggesting the concept of blue-green infrastructure, which includes street trees, is becoming mainstream. This chapter of the manual sets out to demystify the multidimensional nature of the term which stems from its use across numerous contexts, professions, and disciplines. The chapter introduces the origin, definitions, and typologies of this umbrella concept. Its authors put forward key tenets about blue-green infrastructure, its function, value, and overall importance. In practice, they argue, for blue-green infrastructure to be on par with other critical infrastructure calls for a transformational transdisciplinary approach with emphasis on coordination and continuous learning.

KEYWORDS:

• Blue-green infrastructure
• critical infrastructure
• transdisciplinary
• paradigm change

Acknowledgments

Thank you to ICE Publishing part of Emerald Publishing Ltd for permission to reproduce the figures.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kristina Sodomkova

Kristina Sodomkova is an interdisciplinary environmental professional who specialises in applying her research skills to help organisations solve complex problems and identify opportunities for improvements to protect and enhance the natural environment. She is a member of the Arboricultural Association, having achieved the AA Technician grade.