How can 'sponge cities' use nature to tackle climate-fuelled floods?

From Thomson Reuters Foundation:

As climate change brings increasing flood threats, cities need to be designed like giant sponges that allow water to drain away safely, researchers say.

A first-of-its kind study used artificial intelligence to rank seven major cities on their 'sponginess' - in this case, the amount of natural space they have that can easily absorb rainwater.

Here's what sponge cities are and why they matter:

What are 'sponge cities'?

The term "sponge cities" is used to describe urban areas with abundant natural areas such as trees, lakes and parks or other good design intended to absorb rain and prevent flooding.

Interest in harnessing nature - or using "nature-based solutions" - to tackle climate shocks has grown in popularity in recent years.

Cities as diverse as Shanghai, New York and Cardiff are embracing their "sponginess" through inner-city gardens, improved river drainage and plant-edged sidewalks.