Integrating Hydrological Modelling and Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Flood Mapping: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Objective: This study systematically reviews recent global research on the integration of hydrological modelling and nature-based solutions for sustainable flood mapping. It explores how models such as the Personal Computer Storm Water Management Model (PCSWMM) are used to simulate stormwater behavior under climate change conditions and how nature-based interventions enhance resilience, sustainability, and ecological restoration in urban areas vulnerable to flooding.

Research Method: A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, focusing on peer-reviewed studies published between 2017 and 2025 obtained from Scopus and Google Scholar databases. After screening 1,037 records and applying the CASP quality appraisal, 21 eligible studies were analyzed through thematic synthesis to identify major trends, modelling approaches, and ecological strategies.

Findings: The findings indicate that integrating hydrological models with nature-based solutions provides a robust and adaptive framework for sustainable flood management. PCSWMM emerged as the most widely used model because of its flexibility, GIS integration, and high predictive reliability in simulating surface runoff and drainage efficiency. Studies show that coupling hydrological models with green infrastructures such as bioretention cells, permeable pavements, green roofs, and blue roofs significantly reduces flood volume, improves infiltration, and enhances water quality. Hybrid blue-green infrastructures were found to offset up to 167 percent of projected flood volume increases under climate change scenarios demonstrating substantial mitigation potential along with ecological co-benefits. Overall, this review contributes a comprehensive eco-hydrological framework that aligns engineering precision with ecological functionality, supporting global goals for climate resilience and sustainable flood adaptation