Leveraging Actions with Nature for Development and Sustainability

Nature-based Solutions are often described as multifunctional infrastructures because a single intervention can deliver several benefits at the same time. In urban environments, where space is limited and cities face multiple environmental challenges, this multifunctionality becomes particularly valuable.
By introducing vegetation and natural elements into built environments, NbS help restore ecological functions that are often lost in highly urbanised areas. Even relatively small interventions such as green roofs, green walls or rain gardens can support biodiversity by creating habitats for insects, birds and other small species. These ecosystems are typically modest in size, but they contribute to reconnecting fragmented urban habitats and improving ecological balance.
NbS also influence how people experience urban spaces. Access to greenery has been linked to improved physical and mental health, greater well-being and opportunities for social interaction.
From an economic perspective, NbS are often comparable to conventional “grey” infrastructures in terms of investment costs. When properly designed and maintained, however, they can generate long-term value through lower operational costs and multiple co-benefits.

Water plays a central role in the functioning and effectiveness of Nature-based Solutions.
Vegetation depends on water not only for plant growth, but also for its capacity to regulate urban temperatures and improve microclimates.
Through a natural process known as evapotranspiration, plants release water vapour into the air.
This process absorbs heat from the surrounding environment and contributes to cooling urban areas, helping mitigate the effects of heatwaves.
Many NbS can also support urban water management. Solutions such as wetlands, vegetated swales, rain gardens or bioretention areas can infiltrate rainwater into the soil, recharging groundwater, and temporarily store excess rainwater, reducing surface runoff and helping prevent flooding during intense rainfall events.
These systems can facilitate water reuse by treating water (e.g.”greywater” collected from showers and washing basins) to be reused. They also improve stormwater quality by filtering pollutants and sediments before they reach rivers or drainage systems.

By slowing down water flows and increasing natural retention capacity, NbS can complement existing grey infrastructure. However, for these solutions to be truly sustainable, water use must be carefully considered during the design phase to avoid unnecessary consumption of potable water resources.

Designing and implementing Nature-based Solutions requires expertise from multiple disciplines.
Agronomists, ecologists, landscape architects, engineers and urban planners each contribute specific knowledge, from understanding ecosystem dynamics to integrating green infrastructures within urban planning and technical systems.
Equally important is the ability to communicate the value of NbS and engage communities and decision-makers. Building awareness and social acceptance helps ensure that these solutions are understood, supported and maintained over time.
In this context, Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers play a key role. By updating training programmes, professional courses and academic curricula, they can help equip both current and future practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement Nature-based Solutions effectively.
Strengthening education and professional training in this field contributes to a broader shift in how cities approach climate challenges, recognising nature not simply as an aesthetic element, but as a strategic infrastructure for climate adaptation and urban resilience.