04/06/2023
El mundo avanza...
Did you know that nature-based solutions to climate change are, on average, 50% more cost-effective than engineered alternatives? They can also provide 28% more added value compared to grey infrastructure (WEF, 2022). Let's delve into how China has implemented nature-based solutions in its flood-prone regions.
China, as one of the countries most exposed to flooding, experiences an annual average GDP loss of 1% due to floods. With over 640 cities facing flood risks, approximately 67% of the population resides in areas prone to flooding. To address this challenge, in 2014, China initiated the Sponge City Initiative, which integrates nature-based solutions into its flood management strategies. The target was fixed to aligns with the and transform 80% of urban areas into sponge-like environments by 2030 (World Bank, 2021).
This approach integrates green and blue ecosystems, such as parks, urban forests, wetlands, rivers or lakes, with grey infrastructure. Wuhan, Hubei Province is a sponge city that demonstrates a nature based approach to urban resilience against climate change. With the help of urban gardens and green spaces, Wuhan effectively manages water during precipitation and floods. It also improved local air quality, biodiversity. The Yangtze River Beach park exhibits 3°C cooler than the city and vegetation sequesters 724 tonnes of carbon annually. The value of surrounding areas doubled to US $1,471 per square metre (Lucy Oates et.al, 2020).
At UNICITI, we envision cities where uniqueness thrives, and every urban experience is sustainable and livable. It's not a distant dream, but an achievable reality. With the right knowledge, tools, and will, your city can adapt, grow, and flourish in harmony with nature. Want to make your city resilient and vibrant? It's time to act. Let's collaborate! Contact us and let's discuss how we can redefine your city's future together.
