The Application of Rain Gardens in Urban Environments: A Bibliometric Review

Mo Wang (), Ji’an Zhuang, Chuanhao Sun, Lie Wang (), Menghan Zhang, Chengliang Fan and Jianjun Li
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Mo Wang: College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Ji’an Zhuang: College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Chuanhao Sun: College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Lie Wang: Art School, Hunan University of Information Technology, Changsha 410151, China
Menghan Zhang: College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Chengliang Fan: College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Jianjun Li: College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China

Land, 2024, vol. 13, issue 10, 1-23

Abstract: The increasing challenges of urbanization and climate change have driven the need for innovative stormwater management solutions. Rain gardens, as a nature-based solution (NBS), have emerged as a critical component in urban water management, particularly in enhancing hydrological regulation, water quality, and ecosystem services. This bibliometric review examines the application of rain gardens in urban environments, focusing on their roles in stormwater management, pollutant removal, and ecological enhancement. Data from 728 academic papers published between 2000 and 2023 were analyzed using the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection, employing bibliometric tools such as the “Bibliometrix” R package and CiteSpace. The analysis highlights the increasing global interest in rain gardens, particularly since 2015, with China and the United States leading research efforts. Key findings reveal that rain gardens significantly reduce runoff, improve water quality, and contribute to urban biodiversity. In addition, their integration into public spaces offers landscape esthetics and social benefits, enhancing the quality of life in urban areas. However, challenges remain in optimizing their design for diverse climates and long-term performance. The study underscores the need for further research on plant–soil interactions, pollutant removal mechanisms, and the broader ecological and social contributions of rain gardens. This review provides insights into the evolution of rain garden research and identifies future directions for advancing sustainable urban stormwater management.

Keywords: rain garden; bibliometric analysis; urban hydrology; low-impact development; nature-based solution (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
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