Urban Nature-based Solutions for Green Growth in Maharashtra

Project Summary:

This project aims to strategically integrate Nature-based Solutions into Maharashtra's cities to boost economic resilience and accelerate investments.

Maharashtra, one of India's most populous and economically dynamic states, is targeting a one trillion-dollar economy. However, threats like flooding, landslides, and extreme heat jeopardize this goal and the livelihoods of its 100 million residents. Green growth offers a pathway to balance economic development with environmental sustainability, promoting climate-resilient cities and a sustainable economy through interventions with multiple co-benefits.

Urban Nature-based Solutions (NbS) provide a promising yet underutilized approach to reducing risks while creating economic value. Initiatives like wetland restoration, permeable pavements, pocket parks, and green roofs offer co-benefits such as flood mitigation, heat reduction, biodiversity conservation, and enhanced community resilience. Despite their advantages, NBS are often underfunded compared to engineering solutions, yet they hold potential for private investment and public-private partnerships.