Key takeaways
What is the importance of urban green spaces in city environments?
As urban areas expand, functional green spaces become increasingly critical for the well-being of city environments.
How do structural tree pits support tree growth and manage stormwater effectively?
Proper tree pit installation is essential for supporting healthy tree growth and effectively managing stormwater.
What are the key differences between ACO Blue-Green Infrastructure and Citygreen StrataCell?
Each system offers unique benefits for urban tree management. Understanding their differences will help you make informed decisions for your next project.
ACO Blue-Green Infrastructure Systems
ACO New Zealand designs tree pit systems with a focus on sustainable stormwater management.
As urban areas continue to grow, the demand for functional green spaces is more important than ever. Proper tree pit installation is vital for ensuring the health of urban trees. Structural tree pits provide the necessary support for roots while managing stormwater effectively.
In this article, we will compare two leading systems: ACO Blue-Green Infrastructure and StrataCell. Each offers unique benefits for urban tree management. Understanding their differences will help you make informed decisions for your next project.
How ACO systems work
- Integrate with drainage networks to capture, filter, and re-introduce rainwater.
- Support healthy tree growth while reducing localised flooding.
- Combine structural support with water-sensitive urban design principles.
Key Benefits
- Reduces surface flooding and stormwater runoff.
- Improves water quality through natural filtration.
- Aligns with council blue-green infrastructure strategies.
- Supports resilient, climate-ready landscapes.
ACO systems are commonly selected for council streetscape enhancements and projects where both stormwater management and tree survival are crucial.
StrataCell Soil Vaults
The StrataCell is recognised as one of the world’s strongest soil cell systems.
How StrataCell works
- Creates a modular underground framework filled with uncompacted soil.
- Withstands heavy surface loads while allowing roots to expand naturally.
- Provides large soil volumes beneath paved areas without disrupting footpaths or roads.
Key Benefits
- Maximises soil availability for root growth.
- Prevents pavement lifting and damage to surrounding infrastructure.
- High load-bearing strength, ideal for CBDs and high-traffic zones.
- Proven performance in projects such as Auckland’s Wynard Quarter.
StrataCell is the preferred option when long-term root health and structural load capacity are the top priorities.
ACO vs StrataCell: Which is Right for Your Project?
Both systems deliver healthier, longer-lasting urban trees — but they solve different challenges.
| Feature | ACO Blue-Green Systems | StrataCell |
| Primary Focus | Stormwater management + sustainability | Soil volume + root growth |
| Best For | Streetscapes with flooding risks | High-traffic CBDs & commercial projects |
| Key Benefit | Improves drainage and water quality | Protects pavements, maximises soil |
| Strengths | Aligns with council blue-green policies | Strongest soil vault system globally |
| Example Use | Council stormwater projects | Wynyard Quarter Auckland |
Modern Environments: Experts in Both Systems
Every site has different needs — soil conditions, rainfall, surface loads, and council requirements all play a role. That’s why Modern Environments supplies and installs both ACO and StrataCell solutions.
- We work with landscape designers and engineers to deliver solutions for councils, developers, and contractors.
- Our experienced teams ensure compliant installation and long-term results.
- Once the design is finalised, we provide a turnkey service — supply, excavation, installation, and maintenance.
Get Expert Advice
Not sure which structural tree pit system is right for your project? Talk to the specialists.
Contact Modern Environments today for a site assessment and tailored advice on ACO and StrataCell systems.