Understanding the NEEDS for ACTING: An integrated framework for applying nature-based solutions in Brazil

Abstract

Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) support the provision of multiple benefits for the environment and society. First idealised in 2008, NBS are recommended by worldwide reports and guidelines as strategies to protect, sustainably manage and restore ecosystems. However, their operationalisation is still in the early stages, especially in developing countries, and only a few studies consider their full potential. This article contributes to this context by developing an integrated framework, with spatial and participatory tools, for analysing flood risk mitigation in Brazil. The approach enables a deep understanding of the societal challenges and vulnerabilities of the area (i.e., NEEDS) for subsequently planning the appropriate NBS (i.e., ACTIONS), with the participation of 255 stakeholders of Campina Grande municipality. Results show mappings of flood-prone areas, in which approximately 52% of the flooded areas will have an increase in the future. Hotspots (i.e., hazard, vulnerability, and exposure) are shown and discussed with four application cases. Finally, multiple benefits of seven NBS alternatives are analysed in 53 scenarios of application, in which the higher rates of reductions are found to combined alternatives. The discussion emphasizes the importance of spatially assessing the ‘needs’ and ‘multiple benefits’ of NBS, including reducing vulnerabilities and increment of resilience.

Review on the Application of Nature-Based Solutions in Urban Forest Planning and Sustainable Management

“…The efficient use of UF-NBS may face obstacles due to the absence of region-specific information, which might affect the implementation of strategies. Therefore, it is essential to incorporate an understanding of local circumstances when considering these approaches [34,131,[139][140][141][142], avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions [140,143] and breaking path dependence [117,141,144]. Concurrently, another significant challenge is establishing effective partnerships among stakeholders [142], especially between local governments and communities [145].…”

“…Therefore, it is essential to incorporate an understanding of local circumstances when considering these approaches [34,131,[139][140][141][142], avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions [140,143] and breaking path dependence [117,141,144]. Concurrently, another significant challenge is establishing effective partnerships among stakeholders [142], especially between local governments and communities [145]. Local citizens play a pivotal role in enhancing the development and management of NBS, particularly in 'tailoring solutions to local context', with their invaluable knowledge significantly improving the chances of achieving successful outcomes [146].…”

Nature-based Natural-hazard Preparedness: A Cross Section of Categorized Examples

“…However, not many have studies focused on nature-based solutions for disaster management [14] . Although some researchers and policymakers have mentioned nature-based solutions in their domains, no rigorous study has been attempted in relation to natural-hazard preparedness.…”