Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction to NBS

   • Begin with a concise definition of Nature-based Solutions (NBS).
   • Explain the broad concept of NBS: protecting, managing, and restoring natural ecosystems to address societal needs and enhance environmental resilience.

2. Core Features of NBS

   • Mention the different approaches within NBS, including conservation, protection, restoration, management, and sustainable use of ecosystems.
   • Highlight NBS as solution-oriented, addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.

3. Examples of NBS

   • Briefly provide examples of NBS practices, such as increasing green cover, green roofs, rain gardens, restoration of coral reefs, and mangrove ecosystems.

4. How NBS Helps in Adapting to Various Hazards

   • Divide the hazards into categories (e.g., coastal hazards, flooding, heat stress, climate change, soil erosion, drought, etc.) and explain how NBS addresses each one.
   • Support each explanation with examples and facts.

5. Conclusion

   • Conclude by emphasizing the need for scaling up NBS, particularly in regions like India, and its potential role in adapting to global environmental challenges.

Relevant Facts and Examples for Answer:

1. Definition of NBS

• Nature-based Solutions are strategies that protect, manage, and restore ecosystems to meet societal needs while promoting long-term environmental and economic resilience. These include restoring ecosystems, increasing green spaces, and integrating nature into urban planning.

2. Key Approaches of NBS

• NBS strategies include:
  • Conservation: Maintaining natural areas and biodiversity.
  • Restoration: Reviving ecosystems, such as restoring wetlands or coral reefs.
  • Sustainable Use: Ensuring natural resources are used in a way that they can regenerate.

3. Examples of NBS

• Green Roofs and Rain Gardens: Urban solutions to manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and improve air quality.
• Coral Reef Restoration: Protecting reefs to safeguard coastal communities from flooding and erosion.
• Mangrove Restoration: Increasing mangrove density to protect coastal areas from rising sea levels and storm surges.

4. How NBS Addresses Hazards:

• Coastal Hazards: Restoring coral reefs can protect low-lying communities from storm surges, flooding, and erosion. Mangrove restoration is also a key method to reduce the impacts of rising sea levels.
• Urban Heat Stress: Expanding green spaces and implementing green roofs can mitigate the urban heat island effect, reducing heat stress in cities.
• Flooding: NBS such as rain gardens, green roofs, and wetlands absorb stormwater, reducing runoff and flood risks. They also help protect freshwater ecosystems.
• Climate Change: Forests act as carbon sinks, sequestering large amounts of CO2. Preventing deforestation and promoting sustainable forest management can help mitigate climate change.
• Soil Erosion and Landslides: Forest restoration helps stabilize soil and reduce water runoff, mitigating landslides and erosion. This is particularly important in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
• Drought and Water Scarcity: Agroforestry practices and wetland restoration help retain soil moisture, reduce evaporation, and improve water availability, especially during droughts.

5. Need for Scaling NBS

• To address challenges like climate change, NBS needs to be scaled up, particularly in developing countries like India, where they can be integrated into governance and local-level decision-making. There is also a need for increased investment and regional cooperation for effective implementation (Source: IUCN, Indian Ministry of Environment).