The challenges and opportunities of nature-based solutions

December 01, 2022

Current View
of

By Bruce Horton and Chris Digman

Bruce Horton and Chris Digman report for the Environment Magazine the challenges of nature-based solutions and how we unlock the opportunities

Nature-based solutions (NBS) are used increasingly to address societal challenges in a sustainable way while delivering multiple benefits. While not a silver bullet, NBS can help to tackle the climate crisis, ecosystem collapse, population pressures and economic insecurity. But it surprises people that—given NBS’s perceived advantages over traditional, hard- engineered approaches—we don’t use them more widely. 

There are challenges to identify, design, deliver and pay for NBS. To overcome these challenges and deliver on a bigger scale, we must understand the challenges’ nature and extent. Drawing example from Clifton Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW) - Integrated Constructed Wetland (ICW), Stantec’s Bruce Horton and Chris Digman delve into these challenges and discuss the benefits and opportunities of implementing these solutions. 

  • Bruce Horton

    With over 20 years of experience in environmental and resource economics and policy, Bruce serves as a water industry policy adviser on a range of environmental issues including climate change, water resources management, and sustainable development.

    Contact Bruce
  • Chris Digman

    A recognised technical leader in urban drainage, Professor Chris Digman specialises in wastewater and stormwater management, sustainable drainage, flood risk management, pollution control and sewer solid movement.

    Contact Chris