Innovative Measures to Combat Extreme Weather
As extreme weather events like Storm Bert and Storm Darragh increasingly disrupt communities across the UK, IBRAN, a leading UK-based manufacturer of sustainable surfacing products, is addressing the urgent need for scalable and effective flood management solutions.
The Growing Need for Preparedness
The intensifying climate crisis, marked by rising global temperatures, has led to warmer air holding more water, resulting in prolonged and intense rainfall. Recent weather patterns have underscored this, with storms like Bert and Darragh causing significant disruption.
Storm Bert, occurring in late November, brought severe flooding and landslides, with some areas experiencing a month’s worth of rainfall in just days. Devon recorded 175.7mm of rain between 23rd and 25th November, while Storm Darragh in early December caused over 3,000 sewage discharges in just 48 hours, alongside wind speeds of up to 90 mph.
The estimated property damage from November alone is between £250–350 million, and the full impact of December’s storm is still being assessed. These events highlight the pressing need for innovative water management solutions to address the increasing frequency and severity of such disasters.
A Call to Action
“The unpredictable weather patterns we’ve seen over the past 12-18 months suggest that these ‘once in a lifetime’ flooding events are becoming far too common,” explained Ted Bromley-Hall, founder of IBRAN and an expert in paving solutions.
While regulations around sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) have improved for new housing developments, older properties still face challenges with outdated drainage solutions. With extreme weather events on the rise, the demand for improved flood prevention measures and faster recovery strategies has become more urgent.
The Solution: Gravel Grid Technology
IBRAN’s gravel grids are at the forefront of sustainable flood management. These durable, interlocking panels stabilise gravel surfaces and prevent them from shifting or sinking. Crucially, they are fully permeable, allowing water to drain through the surface and reducing surface runoff.
Made from recycled plastic materials, gravel grids offer a more sustainable and cost-effective solution compared to traditional methods like concrete or tarmac. They are ideal for a variety of applications, including driveways, walkways, and parking areas, where effective water management is critical.
There are various permeable surfacing options, including porous resin-bound systems and block paving. However, gravel grids stand out as a low-cost, solid, and long-lasting alternative, Bromley-Hall added. “Their permeable, cellular structure not only provides a stable surface but also supports efficient drainage, making them an ideal choice for flood-prone areas.”
Sustainability at the Core
In addition to their functional benefits, IBRAN’s gravel grids reflect the company’s commitment to sustainability. By using recycled materials, IBRAN ensures that its products align with environmentally responsible practices. These grids not only manage water effectively but also support the broader goal of reducing environmental impact through innovative design and production.
Looking Ahead
As the UK faces an era of increasingly severe weather events, IBRAN remains committed to providing innovative solutions that address these challenges. The company’s gravel grids offer a scalable, sustainable, and practical approach to flood management, helping communities build resilience against future storms.
By combining advanced technology with eco-friendly practices, IBRAN is paving the way for a more sustainable future, offering hope and protection to those impacted by extreme weather.
