On October 16, the Yorkshire Post Climate Change Summit highlighted the role of nature-based solutions (NbS) in building flood resilience in Yorkshire. The session, led by Ousewem, featured a lively discussion on how these solutions can help communities adapt to climate change and attract investment.
Experts from various fields shared valuable insights:
- Victoria Murray from Ousewem discussed how managing water at the catchment level can slow runoff, support biodiversity, and provide a strong case for funding.
- Luke Wellock from the Aire Resilience Company emphasized the growing need for private sector involvement in local climate adaptation efforts.
- George Richmond from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority integrated natural flood management into the region’s broader goals of achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
The panel explored the importance of building trust with landowners and businesses. This trust is essential for encouraging investments in NbS. They also addressed the necessary policies to back these initiatives.
From their discussions, it became clear that connecting local efforts with regional policies can bolster climate resilience. For instance, Murray pointed out that local partnerships and solid evidence can shape effective actions and investment strategies.
Wellock added, “Aligning environmental outcomes with financial frameworks is crucial. We need to share lessons from successful local projects.”
Richmond highlighted that NbS serve as vital climate infrastructure. He asserted, “The real opportunity lies in linking local actions with regional policies to support long-term resilience.”
During a separate panel, Cllr Jenny Kent from the City of York Council emphasized the city’s role in responding to climate challenges. She noted how Ousewem’s projects in various catchments can be scaled to attract funding and deliver multiple benefits.
The Summit created a space for sharing knowledge and fostering discussions on practical ways to integrate NbS into broader climate strategies. With recent reports indicating that nearly 70% of regions in the UK are facing increased flooding risks due to climate change, these conversations are more critical than ever.
In essence, as communities strive to adapt to a changing climate, the focus on nature-based solutions will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping resilient strategies. For more insights on these strategies and their implications, check out the UK Met Office’s climate guide.
Source link
ousewem, flood, resilience, climate, nature, solutions
