Every year storm-water run-off causes nearly 10 trillion gallons of polluted water to be dumped into America's rivers and oceans. As cities across the country struggle to comply with federal regulations surrounding pollution, Philadelphia is emerging as a model of innovation in water management by opting for cost effective natural solutions that save its two rivers from excessive run-off.

Some of the more simple ideas put into practice include distributing free rain barrels to residents and planting strategically located rain gardens in parks, on curbsides and on rooftops. More expensive goals include resurfacing roads with porous materials.

All the plans and practices are laid out on the city's website.

(WATCH the video below and READ the story in the Guardian)

Green City, Clean Waters Promo from GreenTreks Network.