The integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into urban planning has become crucial for enhancing climate resilience in India’s coastal cities. A recent report by the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) marks the urgent need for innovative approaches to tackle flooding and environmental degradation in cities like Chennai and Mangaluru. The report advocates for a shift from traditional grey infrastructure to sustainable practices that leverage natural systems.
About Nature-Based Solutions (NbS)
Nature-based Solutions are strategies that utilise natural processes to address urban challenges. These include restoring wetlands, implementing rooftop greening, and installing permeable pavements. NbS aim to improve urban ecosystems while providing essential services such as flood mitigation and biodiversity enhancement.
Current Urban Challenges
Chennai and Mangaluru face urban challenges. Rapid urbanisation has led to a decline in green cover and increased encroachment on natural water bodies. These changes, coupled with extreme weather events, have exacerbated flooding and environmental degradation. Conventional stormwater management systems are failing to cope with these challenges.
Benefits of Permeable Pavements
Permeable pavements can improve stormwater drainage capacity by up to 5%. This reduction in surface runoff helps mitigate flood risks. The CSTEP report marks that adopting such solutions can enhance urban resilience, especially in vulnerable areas.
Potential of Rooftop Greening
Rooftop greening presents a substantial opportunity for expanding NbS in Chennai and Mangaluru. The report estimates that rooftop greening could increase NbS coverage by 76% in Chennai and 80% in Mangaluru. This approach not only improves aesthetics but also contributes to biodiversity and climate adaptation.
Revitalising Natural Ecosystems
The degradation of natural ecosystems has diminished their capacity to adapt to climate change. Revitalising these ecosystems is essential for enhancing urban resilience. This includes optimising existing water bodies for flood mitigation and groundwater recharge while promoting eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods.
Policy Recommendations
The report urges policymakers to embed NbS within urban planning frameworks. This includes updating regulations to support nature-based infrastructure and directing public funds towards NbS projects. Local governments should pilot scalable NbS initiatives and encourage collaborations across various sectors.
Long-term Economic Benefits
Investing in green infrastructure can yield substantial long-term savings. Even modest investments at the ward level can lead to ecological benefits. As climate risks escalate, integrating NbS into urban planning is essential for creating resilient and sustainable cities.
Future Directions
The future of urban planning in coastal India lies in embracing Nature-based Solutions. Policymakers must prioritise interventions in areas most vulnerable to climate stress. Leveraging data and technology can enhance decision-making processes and support the successful implementation of NbS.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of urbanisation on natural ecosystems in coastal cities.
- What are the challenges and benefits of implementing Nature-based Solutions in urban planning?
- Explain the significance of green infrastructure in enhancing urban climate resilience.
- What is the role of local governments in promoting sustainable urban development? Discuss with suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of urbanisation on natural ecosystems in coastal cities.
- Urbanisation leads to habitat loss and fragmentation, diminishing biodiversity in coastal areas.
- Increased impervious surfaces result in altered hydrology, causing flooding and water quality issues.
- Encroachment on natural water bodies reduces their capacity to manage stormwater and support ecosystems.
- Urban heat islands emerge, further stressing local flora and fauna.
- Pollution from urban runoff negatively impacts marine and coastal ecosystems.
2. What are the challenges and benefits of implementing Nature-based Solutions in urban planning?
- Challenges include limited awareness and understanding of NbS among stakeholders and policymakers.
- Funding and resource allocation for NbS projects can be insufficient or mismanaged.
- Benefits include enhanced biodiversity, improved air and water quality, and reduced flood risks.
- NbS can provide cost-effective solutions compared to traditional grey infrastructure.
- Community engagement and education can encourage support for NbS initiatives, leading to sustainable practices.
3. Explain the significance of green infrastructure in enhancing urban climate resilience.
- Green infrastructure improves stormwater management, reducing surface runoff and flood risks.
- It enhances urban biodiversity, supporting ecosystems that can adapt to climate change.
- Green spaces provide recreational areas, improving mental health and community well-being.
- It can mitigate urban heat islands, lowering energy costs for cooling.
- Investment in green infrastructure yields long-term economic benefits through reduced disaster recovery costs.
4. What is the role of local governments in promoting sustainable urban development? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Local governments can create policies that prioritize NbS in urban planning, as seen in Chennai and Mangaluru.
- They can lead pilot projects to demonstrate the effectiveness of NbS, encouraging wider adoption.
- Local authorities can engage communities in decision-making, encouraging a sense of ownership and responsibility.
- Examples include implementing rooftop greening initiatives and restoring local wetlands to enhance resilience.
- Collaboration with NGOs and private sectors can leverage additional resources and expertise for sustainable projects.
