Working with nature to future-proof our cities: Opinion

In an op-ed for The Straits Times, NTU ASE research fellow Erich Wolff, EOS and ASE Asst Prof Perrine Hamel, and research associate Hannah Rauf, discussed the importance for Singapore to adopt nature-based solutions, such as green walls, rain gardens, and mangrove reforestation to help us cope with the effects of climate change. 

“We found that “grassroots” low-cost initiatives, such as community gardens, play important roles for people living in informal settlements. These solutions, often developed by residents and local organisations, are important to improve food security, create bonds between community members and provide spaces for recreation and connection with nature,” they wrote.

They added that more research needed to be done on how nature-based solutions are being designed, installed and maintained, explaining that the examples found in the Asia-Pacific region show that they are more effective when they are connected to local needs and when communities are deeply involved in their implementation and use.

“If we can leverage their benefits and make sure that nature-based solutions are well-designed and maintained, it is clear they can make our cities more biodiverse, liveable and prepared to deal with the effects of climate change,” they concluded.