Water Security Through Nature Based Solutions – From Theory to Practice

Summary:

This interactive panel will showcase global place-based initiatives supporting water security through nature-based solutions. It will emphasize the vital role of these solutions in addressing water-related climate risks, crucial for ecosystem and human security. The discussion will illustrate successful cooperation among stakeholders and across geographical boundaries. 

Description:

Nature-based solutions (NBS) in both urban and rural contexts are key to ecosystem and human security. NBS can ensure sufficient water supply, water treatment, and reduce risks associated with extreme weather events that threaten human security. This session will spotlight global examples of NBS implementation that support water security, including in the Canadian Prairies, the United States, Latin America, and Africa. Weaving together themes of water security, regional cooperation, and NBS, panelists will speak to the place-based realities of implementing NBS in water insecure contexts and highlight the broader implications for human safety. The aim is to grasp how cooperation among stakeholders and across geographies is achieved in NBS projects, and to explore institutional requirements for promoting NBS, especially in underserved communities. Additionally, it will discuss the business case for NBS, advocating for collaboration among the private sector, public entities, and NGOs. For example, the IISD-led Natural Infrastructure for Water Solutions Initiative aims to break down silos between stakeholder groups and integrate natural infrastructure into decision-making processes, benefiting underserved communities in the Canadian Prairies. Similarly, an NBS project in the Kafue Flats, Zambia, engages NGOs, academia, and investors to implement NBS to support climate adaptation, through flood and drought prevention. 

Registration (Registration available on 8/5 for specific in-person & online sessions)

How you can join online:

1. Register for online access (FREE)
2. You will receive an email with a link to the digital platform
3. Go to the programme and search for this session
4. Click on the session card and press the “join meeting” button when the session is starting.

The join meeting button will be available 10 minutes prior to the meeting, if you dont see the button, re-open the session.