Application Directions of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Improving Urban Water Circulation Issues: A Case Study of Seoul and Bogotá

Changes in rainfall patterns, precipitation volumes, and the occurrence of droughts, while seemingly straightforward manifestations of climate change, have profound implications for water resource management and environmental sustainability. These changes contribute to increased pollutant loads entering river systems, heightened flood risks, and exacerbated water shortages, all of which are intricately linked to urban water circulation systems. Addressing these challenges necessitates significant investments in human resources and financial capital, with Nature-based Solutions (NbS) emerging as a key strategy to establish resilient and sustainable urban water environments. In Seoul, efforts to enhance water circulation incorporate NbS principles, exemplified by the implementation of a Low Impact Development (LID) pre-consultation system that integrates water circulation considerations into urban planning. Additional initiatives, such as the establishment of rainwater villages and the expansion of rainwater management infrastructure, further contribute to the creation of a sustainable and adaptive urban water environment. Globally, similar efforts are being advanced through NbS frameworks. A recent study in Bogotá, Colombia, sought to establish a water circulation model that integrates NbS to address the city’s unique challenges, including steep topography, high population density, and the climatic shifts driven by global climate change. The study developed a dual-perspective management model that incorporates NbS to manage routine rainwater effectively while mitigating flood risks in urban river systems. Building upon these diverse case studies, this research underscores the potential of NbS in fostering sustainable and resilient water circulation systems in urban areas. By leveraging NbS, actionable insights can be provided to improve the quality and sustainability of urban water environments in the context of climate change.

 

Acknowledgement

This study was supported by Korea Environment Industry & Technology Institute(KEITI) through Technology development project to optimize planning, operation, and maintenance of urban flood control facilities, funded by Korea Ministry of Environment(MOE) (RS-2024-00332378)