What aspect should be designed to minimize in parking lots?

Minimizing impervious surface area in parking lots is essential for several reasons related to environmental sustainability and effective water management. Impervious surfaces prevent water from soaking into the ground, which can lead to increased runoff, higher chances of flooding, and water quality issues due to pollutants being carried into waterways. By designing parking lots with reduced impervious surface area, stormwater management can be improved through methods such as permeable paving, creating green spaces, or using bioswales, which absorb and filter water.

Additionally, minimizing the impervious surfaces contributes to more efficient land use and can help mitigate urban heat island effects by allowing for more green spaces that can cool the environment. This approach aligns with sustainable design principles and encourages the incorporation of natural elements into the built environment. Overall, focusing on reducing impervious surface area is a critical aspect of modern parking lot design that promotes ecological balance and effective resource management.