Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Change Adaptation in a Smart City Paradigm in Climate-Related Disasters and Urban Resilience

Nature-based solutions (NbS) have increasingly become an important approach in the framework of climate change adaptation for smart cities as they help in becoming more resilient and sustainable. In this regard, natural buffers against extreme weather events, less frequent floods, and improved air and water quality represent some of the benefits derived from NbS in addressing climate-related disasters. Examples of such benefits include green roofs, urban trees, and wetlands restoration. These methods improve environmental health and reduce reliance on conventional, energy-intensive systems by integrating natural processes with urban infrastructure. Smart cities can also use the latest technologies such as Internet of Things and data analytics to optimize NbS adoption and maintenance for effective contribution to carbon neutrality goals. The present book chapter focuses on how NbS is effective in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and its potential to increase social well-being, air quality, and biodiversity. This chapter suggests that data-driven approaches can optimize NbS management and maximize the effectiveness of integrating smart city technology—a powerful combination. Also, NbS is a flexible approach that merges ecological sustainability with the goals of urban development by way of enhancing the adaptation potential of cities to climate change.