Nature-based solutions (NBS) have the potential to address major global challenges such as climate change and food security. However, a recent study conducted by the University of Surrey reveals that communities outside of Europe are missing out on the benefits of these innovative solutions.
The study found that 33% of NBS focused on green solutions. These include urban green spaces like parks, green roofs, and green walls, which contribute to cooling, shade, rainfall absorption, and improved air quality.
An additional 31% of NBS were hybrid solutions, which combine green infrastructure with other technologies. Examples include green roofs with integrated solar panels or rainwater harvesting systems.
Professor Prashant Kumar, Director of the Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCARE) and lead author of the study, expressed concern about the lack of NBS implementation in vulnerable communities outside of Europe. He said,
“While we have seen successful adoption of nature-based solutions in addressing climate change, hazards, water security, and food security, it is alarming to witness the lack of investment in these solutions for vulnerable communities outside of Europe.”
The research team from GCARE analyzed over 500 NBS case studies from around the world and discovered that more than 88% of these projects were supported by national policies, ensuring their financial viability.
The most common application of NBS was in addressing water-related hazards such as floods and landslides, accounting for 45% of all case studies. The second most common application was in addressing meteorological/climatological hazards like heatwaves and droughts (30%), followed by environmental hazards like soil degradation and air pollution (24%). Fire hazards had the lowest representation, accounting for only 1% of the case studies.
Professor Kumar emphasized the potential impact of implementing NBS in vulnerable communities, stating,
“68% of the case studies we analyzed align with UN Sustainability goals for life on land, climate action, and clean water. Imagine the transformative benefits these innovations could bring to our most vulnerable communities.”
The study was published in Science of the Total Environment.
More Information:
Sisay E. Debele et al, Nature-based solutions can help reduce the impact of natural hazards: A global analysis of NBS case studies, Science of The Total Environment (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165824
Citation:
Nature-based solutions can help tackle climate change and food security, but communities outside Europe are missing out (2023, August 1)
retrieved 2 August 2023
from https://phys.org/news/2023-08-nature-based-solutions-tackle-climate-food.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no
part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.
Denial of responsibility! TechCodex is an automatic aggregator of the all world’s media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
