To combat rising sea levels and increased flooding, cities in China are deploying and experimenting with “spongey” infrastructure as a potential solution. The design philosophy is: remove existing pipes and drains to manage rain and stormwater, and implement natural infrastructure like rain gardens and vegetation to absorb water instead. The result? Lush, green, rainforests against the backdrop of dense urban areas. These designs are great for managing urban flooding, and also support biodiversity.
Check out an explainer video documentary here:
https://www.vox.com/videos/23932182/urban-design-sponge-cities-climate-biodiversity