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Nature Based Solutions And Urban Resilience
2021), it is suggested that global expenditures focus on applications that
harm natural environment and basic life support systems. It’s also stressed
that if the current situation continues, we will have missed our chance to
heed the warnings of nature and change our course. It is emphasized that
instead of measures that provide short-term temporary solutions, there is
need for investments that support recovery processes, and natural capital,
green energy, green transport, green building, and energy efficiency as well
as green research and development should be considered as new investment
opportunities.
The share of nature-based solutions from the worldwide climate funding is
not sufficient. The success of common efforts depends largely on maximizing
the contribution of nature to climate action. Resorting to nature-based
solutions in mitigation and adaptation policies, strategies and action plans
at a global, national and local level will support the transfer of investments to
natural infrastructures. Additionally, the integration of nature-based solutions
to spatial plans will decrease social inequalities and play an important role in
managing trade-offs (Bush and Doyon, 2019).
Furthermore, there is need for a new perspective in which nature-based
solutions are assessed along with climate and biodiversity crises. It should be
admitted that human welfare is not related to unlimited economic growth, but
is rather linked to the health of ecosystems, and the material and energy flow
in ecosystems is necessary for the ecosystem as well as human health.
Urban systems depend on nature and natural resources. It is clear that
becoming aware of the vital importance of ecosystem services for climate
change adaptation and disaster risk mitigation, and increasing investments
in nature and focusing on nature in all actions is crucial. While determining
adaptation options, the benefits of nature-based solutions compared to
alternative engineering solutions, sustainability, and ecological, economic
and social benefits should be taken into account (Coşkun Hepcan, 2021; 2022).
Directing investments in cities to (nature-based) green solutions as much as
possible, and to grey solutions only when necessary will render cities resilient.
At this point in climate crisis, gaining awareness on the need for acting with
nature and to this end, working towards not only mitigating risks, but also
increasing resilience is highly important. To reach Sustainable Development
Goals, putting nature-based solutions into practice will increase the chances
of success.
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