Localized nature-based solutions for enhanced climate resilience and community wellbeing in urban informal settlements

Abstract

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are considered to hold promise for addressing the pressing and multi-faceted challenges of climate resilience. Addressing this contemporary agenda, this research paper explores the potential value of NbS in urban contexts based on the experience of implementing four NbS pilots to address climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction in an informal settlement in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The project, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), employed an inclusive co-production approach, with the project team engaging closely with community members and local stakeholders throughout the planning, design and implementation stages. Findings reinforce the importance of long-term engagement and trust-building with members of the community and also underscore the value of empowering local partners in project design and implementation in Pacific Island Nations. The paper details the local processes that were involved and highlights the key insights and lessons learned from the proof-of-concept project which can usefully inform the scaling up of NbS initiatives to achieve multiple benefits in other similar urban contexts in the Global South.