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USC paves way for sustainability
Can you imagine using your driveway to funnel rain into your own underground tank – convenient, unobtrusive and handy for watering the garden?
That’s one of the possibilities of an emerging technology called permeable pavement, according to a University of the Sunshine Coast civil engineer.
USC Senior Lecturer Dr Terry Lucke recently moved to the Coast from the University of South Australia, where he has been researching permeable pavement and siphonic roof drainage systems.
Dr Lucke believes the pavement could be a vital building block in the design of sustainable urban areas and transport links across the Coast and Queensland.
It may be used on residential streets, footpaths and other public open spaces, driveways and container depots. “It’s potentially big business, with big benefits for society, wildlife and landscapes,” he said.
A Permeable Pavement Seminar will be held tomorrow (Thursday 28 October) at the USC Innovation Centre, Sippy Downs. Registrations have closed due to strong interest.
“This free seminar and workshop will provide an opportunity to learn more about this important technology from some of Australia’s leading experts,” said Dr Lucke, who will discuss research activities.
Other speakers will include:
• Professor Simon Beecham, University of South Australia, whose software has been used to design roofwater harvesting systems at stadiums and airports;
• Professor Brian Shackel, University of New South Wales, who has consulted internationally on asphalt and concrete block paving;
• Alan Pearson, CMAA (Concrete Masonry Association of Australia), who will discuss the future role of permeable pavements on the Coast.
USC Engineering students will join council staff, local engineers, architects, builders and concrete manufacturers at the seminar.
Dr Lucke said the product, which allowed water to seep between pavers, was a functional, cost-competitive construction element that aided flood mitigation and water quality.
“It can reduce the magnitude and frequency of flooding, facilitate the biodegradation of oils from vehicles, help rainwater infiltrate the soil and provide tree roots with access to air and water,” he said.
The seminar is sponsored by CMAA, USC and Engineers Australia.
– Julie Gatehouse