The occurrence of urban flooding often coincides with land subsidence—a gradual settling or sudden sinking of the Earth’s surface (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2024). This phenomenon has several consequences. Firstly, it decreases the elevation of land areas, leaving urban settings even more vulnerable to flooding. For example, Bulacan province is considered the Philippine city most severely impacted by land subsidence, with the highest recorded sinking rate at 109 millimeters per year (Sulapas et al., 2024). Secondly, land subsidence may lead to water scarcity. During this occurrence, groundwater may either be contaminated or over-pumped, affecting water supply greatly. Lastly, land subsidence leads to structural damage to urban areas. Buildings and infrastructure can crack, tilt, or settle unevenly due to the sinking ground, leading to structural instability and repair costs.

While it may seem negative, urbanization is—of course—not a bad thing. However, there must be a way to mediate between development and sustainability. There have been solutions to remedy the consequences already suffered by areas undergoing rapid urbanization, as well as ways to prevent the issue from occurring in the first place. While some countries have already implemented these solutions, they remain merely concepts in many others, awaiting proper adoption and execution. A part of this is the notion that better urban planning must be put into place. This includes constructing in areas that are not flood-prone and expanding green spaces. Governments and systems in place should take into consideration the long-term sustainability of the planning and its eventual benefits to society. To address flood risk, the improvement of drainage systems should also be taken into consideration. This can be done through regular maintenance and assessment of sewer systems. Modernizing drainage systems can also be done using innovations such as permeable pavements, smart sensors, and modular systems.

Overall, rapid urbanization is a process that has deep impacts on the frequency of flooding, the environment, and the safety of cities. While urbanization may prove to have numerous benefits, it is important to take into consideration the externalities of which it may impact other aspects of society, particularly the environment. Striking a balance between development and sustainability is crucial for effective urban planning, ensuring that governments, institutions, and participants in the NOVUS Case Competition implement solutions that promote both progress and resilience.