Stormwater Runoff Threatens Aquatic Ecosystems with Dangerous Heat Levels
This research looked into how heated stormwater runoff affects the environment and tested ways to reduce this heat using rain gardens and special pavement. The scientists set up a controlled lab experiment with different types of surfaces and rain gardens to mimic real-life stormwater situations. By measuring temperatures in the lab, they found that certain surfaces can help cool down stormwater before it reaches lakes or rivers, which is good for the environment. The lab results showed that using these special materials could lower stormwater temperatures significantly, which could protect water bodies from getting too warm due to runoff.