Context-specific nature-based solutions (NbS) and other ecosystem-based approaches that work with nature rather than against it are a key way in which to conserve, protect and sustain healthy blue ecosystems, including freshwater ecosystems, and their services, upon which humans rely for their survival. Nature-positive grey-green solutions that combine built infrastructure with vegetation can also be beneficial in some situations.
Healthy freshwater ecosystems are biodiverse and connected to their environment. The adjustment or removal of built riverine infrastructure such as dams to allow migratory fish species to reach their spawning grounds is an example of a nature-based solution. Ensuring that rivers are reconnected to their floodplains to absorb water during intense rainfall or flooding, or that wetlands are rewetted or constructed for water purification or absorption/management and storage purposes, are others. These interventions also have key co-benefits for biodiversity and local communities.
NbS for water resources management involves the planned and deliberate use of ecosystem services to improve water quantity and quality and increase resilience to climate change. Investment in NbS helps to safeguard and maintain ecosystems that are vital for food and water supplies, protect against natural disasters and provide goods and services key to human well-being and economic development. Numerous studies suggest such interventions and protection measures are cost-effective in the long run.
What we do
NbS is a key focus area of the work of UNEP, including with centres such as the UNEP-DHI Centre for Water and Environment, and the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre. Through nature-based and ecosystem-based approaches, we aim to change the way we interact with and depend on nature to unlock its full potential for more sustainable water resources and water ecosystem management, and climate resilience-building.
UNEP and partners have launched a project to support cities to take action for nature, thus contributing to the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the project will run from 2023-2025 to inform, inspire, and enable policymakers, practitioners, businesses and finance institutions to promote ecosystem restoration in cities.
Further resources and project examples
Nature-based solutions to emerging water challenges in the Asia-Pacific region
Nature-based solutions supporting climate resilience in the Juba-Shabelle River basin
Sustainable development in Lake Turkana and its river basins and the D’aua-Juba-Shabelle basin
