UN 
Urban areas worldwide are increasingly adopting nature-based solutions (NBS) to address climate change impacts, according to a 2026 report from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). These approaches include restoring wetlands, expanding urban green spaces, and implementing sustainable drainage systems to reduce flooding and improve air quality.
Cities like Amsterdam, Cape Town, and Singapore showcase successful integration of NBS in urban planning, enhancing resilience to heatwaves and extreme weather while promoting biodiversity. UNEP highlights that investing in these solutions not only mitigates climate risks but also improves public health and social equity.
However, scaling these initiatives requires coordinated policy frameworks, community involvement, and sustainable financing mechanisms. Experts urge governments to prioritize NBS within urban climate strategies to achieve SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities alongside SDG 13 on climate action.
