Green and permeable surfaces for access routes, parking, and storage areas

Nature‑based circulation areas: a contribution to biodiversity and climate adaptation

Many company premises are subject to high operational pressure and therefore often sealed beyond what is necessary. Paved areas such as parking lots, storage zones, and access routes contribute to heat buildup, reduce rainwater infiltration, and provide no ecological value.

By using permeable surfaces (e.g. grass pavers, gravel lawns, permeable paving with green joints, bound gravel surfaces) and integrating vegetation, these areas can be transformed into multi-functional green areas. These benefits include:

• improved rainwater infiltration and reduced pressure on the sewage system,
• fewer heat islands and improved local microclimate,
• creation of additional habitats for plants and animals,
• enhanced quality and visual improvement of outdoor spaces
• increased lifespan of the surfaces due to reduced thermal stress.

The following sections outline the key steps to consider during planning and implementation.

Analysis of objectives and requirements of areas with unsealing potential

• What are the specific objectives: is the focus on reducing heat buildup, increasing infiltration capacity and thereby lowering drainage costs, or improving the overall quality of the site for people and nature?
• Which sealed areas on the premises could be considered for unsealing?
• Which unsealing measures are appropriate for the intended use of each area?
• Are some of these areas suitable for at least partial unsealing?
• Are there municipal requirements or support programmes for unsealing measures?
• How can employees be involved in the process?
• What synergies exist with rainwater management, cooling, and the overall quality improvement of outdoor areas?

Identifying possible solutions and assessing feasibility

• Analyse the existing circulation and parking areas (size, use, load-bearing requirements).
• Select suitable measures: partial unsealing using grass pavers, eco paving, bound gravel surfaces, gravel turf or permeable concrete.
• If applicable, integrate rainwater management (swales, infiltration trenches, retention basins or ponds).

Consultation, support and application for possible subsidies

Contact local or national institutions that can provide technical guidance:

• Ecological service of your municipality
• Nature Park or nature conservation syndicate
• natur&ëmwelt
• Ëmweltberodung Lëtzebuerg a.s.b.l.

Advantages

• reduced surface runoff and improved soil infiltration
• lower heat accumulation through increased evaporation
• improved working environment for employees and a more positive public perception

Project implementation

• Planning and design by landscape architects or companies with experience in ecological construction
• Gradual implementation to avoid disruption to company operations
• Optionally combined with employee activities (e.g. tree planting events)
• Establishment of clear maintenance and management plans

Follow-up

• Document the new maintenance tasks and associated costs using a before and after comparison.
• Monitor water infiltration capacity after heavy rainfall and record temperatures before and after implementation to document the microclimate effect. Communicate these results internally (employees) and externally (customers, municipality).
• Gather feedback from employees and customers regarding the improved quality of the environment and document it, if relevant, for your sustainability report or CSR communication.