Pervious concrete pavements for climate change adaptation and mitigation: a systematic review of performance, sustainability, and future perspectives

Climate change impacts urban environments, amplifying flood risks, intensifying urban heat island (UHI) effects, and compromising sustainability. Pervious concrete pavements (PCPs) offer an innovative solution by facilitating stormwater infiltration, reducing runoff, and mitigating UHI effects. This review synthesises findings from 473 studies, focusing on material innovations, structural enhancements, hydrological functionality, maintenance practices, and climate resilience benefits. Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), recycled aggregates, and other additives significantly improve durability, sustainability, and permeability. Although optimised structural designs balance load capacity and infiltration, clogging still limits long-term performance. Maintenance strategies like vacuuming and pressure washing are essential for sustaining permeability. PCPs also reduce UHI effects through evaporative cooling and increased surface albedo, highlighting their strategic value in urban climate adaptation. However, further research is imperative to address gaps in long-term durability, advanced clogging control, and smart technology integration. This review offers a foundation to guide research, infrastructure planning, and sustainable urban policy.