Tracing the Past and Understanding the Unique Value of Urban Water Systems Citizens | Water Plants | Systems
Expert Discussion
Author: Li Rui
The report of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China proposed that "we must firmly establish and practice the concept that green mountains and clear waters are invaluable assets, and plan development from the perspective of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.". The urban water system includes system units such as urban surface water and groundwater, urban water supply, urban drainage, urban recycled water, urban waterlogging prevention and control, and urban rivers and lakes. It is a product of the symbiotic development of social, economic, and environmental factors.
Since ancient times, urban development has been based on living by water and thriving by water. The location and spatial evolution of ancient Chinese cities are closely related to urban water supply. For example, the water supply facilities in Chang'an City during the Han Dynasty mainly consisted of rivers, artificial lakes, and wells. People dug rivers and canals to bring the water from the city into the water for residents; Excavate Kunming Pond to accumulate water and ensure urban water use in Chang'an City during drought periods; Dig wells in palaces and official offices to fetch water for the upper class, such as the royal family and nobility, to drink. These excavated channels and ponds were integrated with the construction of urban gardens, not only enriching the landscape of Chang'an City in Han Dynasty, but also providing a good place for citizens to relax and enjoy at that time.
The development of modern urban water systems originated from the first industrial revolution in the mid-18th century. The rapid growth of urban population worldwide has caused environmental pollution, leading to the spread of waterborne infectious diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. Therefore, water quality purification and sewage treatment processes have emerged one after another.
At the end of the 19th century, modern tap water technology began to be introduced to China, and then rapidly developed in large cities. The earliest batch of tap water plants in China began to emerge. They carry the memories of modern history and are also witnesses to the history of industrial development in China.
The construction of the tap water system has changed the traditional dependence of cities on natural water sources, leading to a large-scale expansion of urban built-up areas inland, high-density development along the water supply network, and gradually extending to the surrounding areas. At the same time, the original streets and alleys are no longer able to meet the needs of urban development, and the construction and renovation of roads are imperative. Unlike the narrow and winding streets and alleys in the past, a wide and straight urban road grid has begun to form in modern times. The popularization of the tap water system has also to some extent promoted the development of urban park water activities and the construction of water features, injecting new vitality into modern urban landscapes.
In recent years, facing the increasingly scarce water resources, the utilization of water has become more diversified: in terms of hardware, we have increased innovation in water-saving technology, and promoted sustainable use of urban water resources through means such as renewable water use, desalination of sub sea water, and integrated rainwater storage and infiltration; Gradually establish and improve water-saving management models in software, and deepen the nationwide water-saving movement through publicity and science popularization.
Looking back at the development of urban water systems, we can gain a glimpse into the history of urban construction, industrial development, technological development, and civilization development. Looking into the future, we may be able to explore more in areas such as land intensification in the water industry, recognition of water system values, and construction of water culture. For example, combining some of the water plant functions with underground space, and using the saved above ground space for ecological leisure, cultural entertainment, commercial shopping, etc. of citizens; By transforming the old water plant into a historical exhibition hall and adding a science popularization hall around the existing water plant, we aim to enhance the public's understanding of the historical and scientific value of the water system; Actively promote the construction of water culture, carry out cultural and artistic performances, academic exchanges, art exhibitions, cultural and creative markets and other activities suitable for various groups of people, and enhance public awareness of water conservation and environmental protection in more interesting forms.
Guangming Daily
