About NbS for cities
Despite occupying just 2-3% of Earth’s land surface, cities are home to the surging majority of humanity. Today some 4.46 billion people—roughly 57% of the global population—live in cities. By 2050, this figure is projected to reach 6.7 billion accounting for over two-thirds of us.
Examples from around the world attest that nature-based solutions can cost-effectively and elegantly enhance the sustainability, resilience and liveability of cities. Trees mop up pollutants, dampen noise, and cool the air; wetlands and raingardens reduce flood risk; mangroves and marshes buffer storms; greenspaces facilitate exercise, spiritual nourishment and community interaction; and greenways support active travel.