Nature-based solutions must be part of the conversation at COP27

Ash Welch, biodiversity specialist, argues that natural defense is the answer to many of the challenges of climate change.

The biodiversity crisis might not be the primary concern of delegates at COP27 in Egypt, but the search for solutions to climate change must not overlook the role that nature-based solutions can play in addressing both adaptation and decarbonization.

With as many as 1 million animal and plant species threatened with extinction from a variety of sources, including climate change and pollution, biodiversity is no longer the preoccupation only of ecologists and conservationists. It is increasingly on the agenda of city planners, investors and infrastructure engineers.

The deployment of nature-based solutions (NBS) brings significant economic and social benefits to societies and can be used in carbon-offsetting and enhancing biodiversity. It also strengthens front line defense against the ravages of climate change in the most vulnerable and impacted communities, such as with the reforestation of coastal areas susceptible to erosion and flooding.

The removal of natural habitats has intensified the impact of climate change. But equally, their restoration can mitigate it. NBS can provide a layer of natural protection to urban environments by bringing down local temperatures and protecting against floods, storms and tidal surges.

The infrastructure projects we help deliver vary hugely in scale and range, as do the accompanying NBS solutions. From urban walls, roofs and bridges planted with vegetation to the restoration of important habitats such as wetlands and forests, we are seeing demand for natural carbon capture solutions increase.

One of the most advanced countries in its approach to nature-based solutions is Singapore. One key project in the region highlights the potential for resilience and adaptation. AECOM worked with the National Park Board to conduct a multi-disciplinary design consultation and environmental impact study on the nation’s coastline. This resulted in the restoration of mangrove forests, which enhance biodiversity, increase carbon capture and offer protection from floods and storms.

Elsewhere, it is encouraging to see adoption moving quickly, and in certain industries first movers are educating their teams to the potential of NBS. Adoption will only accelerate as organizations start to understand the economic and social benefits of choosing NBS over traditional engineering solutions. It will undoubtedly help that biodiversity is increasingly recognized as important by investors who are including it in their ESG investment criteria.

AECOM is engaged in a number of initiatives aimed at promoting the adoption of NBS. These include the Natural Capital Laboratory, aimed at trialing a range of innovative approaches and techniques to enhance the way we approach NBS. The Laboratory currently has one project running in the Highlands of Scotland restoring 100 acres of lost forest. A second is planned in Australia. We widely share the lessons from NCL projects to help other organizations advance the cause.

With sea levels rising and storms and weather events intensifying the need for infrastructure that adapts and provides resilience is growing. NBS should be regarded as a critical defense against the threat and must be a part of the discussion at COP27. AECOM has the skills and experience to play a key role in this battle and looks forward to engaging with like-minded partners.