Which aspect of stormwater management is least affected?

Material cost optimization is the aspect of stormwater management that is least affected by the various factors typically considered in the design and implementation of a stormwater management system. The primary focus of stormwater management is often on preventing soil erosion, reducing flood hazards, and protecting water quality, as these factors are critical for environmental sustainability, public safety, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

While material cost optimization is an important consideration in any engineering project, it does not directly influence the effectiveness of stormwater management practices in the same way that ecological and safety concerns do. Costs can vary widely based on the materials chosen, but the core objectives of managing stormwater—such as controlling runoff, maintaining water quality, and preventing erosion—remain central to the purpose of these systems, and they often take precedence over optimizing material costs. As a result, this choice is less impacted compared to the others, which are integral to the success and functionality of stormwater management initiatives.