Nature-based solutions
Making Mission Possible - Delivering A Net-Zero Economy, published by the Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) in September 2020, defines nature-based solutions as: ‘Actions to protect, sustainably manage and restore natural or modified ecosystems which constitute natural carbon sinks, while simultaneously providing human, societal and biodiversity benefits.’
The National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England, Glossary, published by the Environment Agency in 2020, defines nature based solutions as: ‘Activities to reduce the risk of flooding or coastal change which are inspired by the processes and functions of nature. Examples include, reconnecting rivers with their natural floodplain or creating new areas where water can be stored. Natural flood management and creation and provision of green-infrastructure are examples of Nature based solutions.’
PAS 2080:2023 Carbon management in buildings and infrastructure, second edition, published by The British Standards Institution in March 2023, defines nature-based solutions as: ‘…actions to protect, sustainably manage and restore natural or modified ecosystems that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits. NOTE Nature-based contributions to decarbonization could be by: 1) providing infrastructure services (e.g. flood protection, urban cooling) and avoiding the need for capital and operational carbon from the equivalent grey/ hard infrastructure (e.g. flood defences, air conditioning); 2) actively removing carbon from the atmosphere by enhancing natural ecosystem diversity and re-instating the natural carbon cycle, hence increasing carbon sequestration in the above ground vegetation (e.g. trees) and the soil that supports it. Worked examples are provided in the Guidance document for PAS 2080.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Carbon capture and storage.
- Carbon emissions.
- Carbon factor.
- Carbon footprint.
- Carbon negative.
- Carbon neutral.
- Carbon plan.
- Carbon price.
- Carbon terminology.
- Carbon.
- Decarbonise.
- Decarbonisation solutions.
- Embodied carbon.
- Low carbon.
- Making Mission Possible: report on achieving a zero-carbon economy by 2030.
- Natural carbon sinks.
- Net-zero carbon.
Featured articles and news
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.