Natural solution: why nature is our best water manager to tackle climate change

Whether it's urban wetlands or making more room for rivers, nature is increasingly viewed as our friend, not our foe, when it comes to improving water availability, quality, and protection.

The European Commission defines Nature-based solutions as:

“Solutions that are inspired and supported by nature, which are cost-effective, simultaneously provide environmental, social and economic benefits, and help build resilience. Such solutions bring more and more diverse, nature and natural features and processes into cities, landscapes and seascapes, through locally adapted, resource-efficient and systemic interventions.”

Now recognised as one of the best ways to boost biodiversity and enhance climate resilience, Nature-based solutions are often used in conjunction with conventional water infrastructure to achieve more sustainable outcomes. Often self-sustaining, these solutions can help prepare for and even prevent water-related disasters such as flooding.

Wetland Restoration: Improves water filtration and flood control.

Green Roofs: Absorb rainwater and improve urban air quality.

Permeable Pavements: Reduce runoff and recharge groundwater.

Rain Gardens: Capture and absorb stormwater runoff.

Reforestation: Enhance soil infiltration and reduce runoff.

The EU’s Green Deal emphasises climate-proofing, resilience-building, prevention, and preparedness. Brussels has also pledged to protect biodiversity and ecosystems while ensuring sustainable agriculture. NBS are seen as crucial tools for achieving these goals. The EU funds 76 research and innovation NBS projects across 71 countries, with over 600 million euros allocated. Countries like Belgium, Spain, and Germany also invest heavily in nature-based solutions.

For every euro invested