One factor behind Beijing’s recent vulnerability to floods is its rapid development, says Shao Sun, [engineering visiting associate researcher], a climatologist at the University of California, Irvine. … “China’s rapid urbanization has led to a proliferation of impermeable surfaces,” he says. “Green spaces such as parks and gardens play a vital role in water retention. Their dwindling presence due to urbanization diminishes their capacity to effectively manage excessive rainfall.” Read More