City Nature-Based Solutions integration to local urban INFRAstructure protection for a climate resilient society (NBSINFRA)
The NBSINFRA project is aimed at developing and implementing nature-based solutions (NBS) to protect urban infrastructure from natural and man-made hazards, particularly those exacerbated by climate change. It is built upon the understanding that these solutions can provide innovative and effective ways to increase societal preparedness against disruptive events, while also fostering a healthier relationship between technoscientific advancements and the natural world.
The project was initiated in response to the increasing frequency and intensity of these hazards, and their significant impacts on urban infrastructures and societies at large. Not only do these impacts cause considerable economic losses, but they also trigger population exodus, economic downturns, and changes in landscape and biodiversity. Through the NBSINFRA project, UNESCO and its partners aim to tackle these challenges by developing socially embedded and culturally negotiated solutions that increase local infrastructure resilience, comply with Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs), and contribute to the creation of more sustainable and resilient communities.
UNESCO contributions to NBSINFRA
UNESCO supports the NBSINFRA project by facilitating the replication of its NBS solutions, as well as supporting capacity building and EU level cooperation, to improve urban infrastructure resilience against hazards.
Contribution 1: Improving regional resilience through local "City lab" initiatives
UNESCO supports efforts to boost regional resilience by initiating and conducting broad consultations with national and regional stakeholders about the potential replicability of NBSINFRA solutions. This includes a detailed identification process to find areas where these innovative, nature-based solutions can be effectively implemented. The exploration process includes an in-depth analysis of the environmental, social, and economic conditions in potential implementation areas.
UNESCO leverages its global reach to present these solutions to high-level representatives, with the goal of encouraging wider adoption of NBSINFRA solutions. This is expected to bolster societal resilience against both natural and human-made hazards.
Contribution 2: Capacity building on nature-based solutions in the context of climate change
UNESCO assists its NBSINFRA partners in identifying capacity gaps for nature-based solutions in Europe and beyond. This process includes evaluating technical, policy, and organizational elements that might influence the application of nature-based solutions to safeguard important city services.
Upon identifying these gaps, workshops will facilitate knowledge exchange across diverse social and cultural environments. The aim is to generate recommendations that will lay the foundation for a collective plan on nature-based solutions in these regions.
Contribution 3: Enhancing cooperation and knowledge exchange
Drawing on its extensive experience, UNESCO further contributes to the NBSINFRA project by promoting cross-sector dialogue on nature-based solutions at the EU level. This initiative aims to connect various stakeholders such as other NBS projects, beneficiaries, experts, policymakers, and communities to exchange insights and best practices, fostering effective and innovative nature-based solution use in urban areas. It also ensures the perspectives and needs of all stakeholders are considered, contributing to the success and sustainability of the NBSINFRA project.
Fortifying future cities by harnessing nature-based solutions for resilient urban environments today
Expected impact of the project
against unforeseen events such as pandemics, complex attacks, or the unpredictable forces of nature, and humanity
“NBSINFRA is transforming the way we think about urban infrastructure by placing nature at the forefront of our resilience strategies. This project is not just about protection; it's about creating a sustainable future for our cities. With UNESCO's valuable expertise and commitment in this project transform the potential of NBSINFRA into tangible outcomes, strengthening regional resilience, fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and promoting sustainable urban development in the face of natural and human-induced hazards.”
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UNESCO's participation in NBSINFRA events
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