Sustainable drainage is an element of the ‘Hydrological Cycle’. It is the collection of rainwater, its treatment and, ultimately, its reuse. The process involves capturing water run-off, that may or may not contain pollutants, so it can be dealt with in a controlled manner. The water can then be treated, stored for future use, or transported to receiving waterways. This transfer of water should come at low cost, and cause minimal damage and danger to the environment.
Surface drainage can be used where rainwater has collected on paved areas for the ‘capture’ part of this process.

Grated trench drains are ideal for the capture and collection of storm water run-off. They form a barrier to prevent rainwater run-off flowing onto the soft landscaping where collection is more difficult. This is of particular importance if the risk of contamination is high, such as in highway and petrol station applications. ACO provides a wide range of trench drains to meet the hydraulic needs of any WSUD design.