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"Nature-based solutions can, when implemented thoughtfully and strategically, not only prove to be more cost-effective in the long run, but also benefit from the emergence of nature markets. They contribute to multiple environmental and societal outcomes, including net zero commitments and addressing environmental risks, and positively impact the financial bottom line."

Jenny Merriman
Technical Director, Nature Advisory
WSP in the UK

 

 The biodiversity of the natural world holds immeasurable value. It encompasses not only the myriad species that inhabit our planet but also the intricate web of relationships that sustains life itself. Beyond its intrinsic worth, biodiversity plays a crucial role in providing co-benefits to our climate, human health, social cohesion, and economic resilience. It forms the foundation of an interdependent relationship between nature, society, and humanity, underscoring the essence of a thriving biosphere.

In recognizing the pivotal role of biodiversity and nature, organizations are awakening to the imperative of understanding how a robust biosphere supports every facet of their operations. From optimizing supply chains and embracing circular economies to achieving net-zero emissions and advancing decarbonization efforts, a healthy biosphere forms the bedrock of progress in the 21st century. 

This awareness has given rise to what are known as 'Nature-based Solutions' (NbS). These innovative approaches place nature at the forefront of problem-solving. 

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What are Nature-based Solutions?

Nature-based solutions harness the natural world's inherent capabilities to address a range of challenges, benefiting both people and biodiversity. They encompass scalable and cost-effective strategies with wide reaching benefits such as carbon storage, water purification, and flood risk reduction. By integrating NbS, organizations not only bolster their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals but also unlock avenues for climate change mitigation,  enhance biodiversity attract crucial funding, and trim capital expenditures.

One of the core challenges in funding and implementing nature-based solutions is that people do not understand their much wider value to society . If you need evidence that investing in NbS is cost-effective - we have the tools and track record to develop this. We can also advise on new natural capital markets and financing mechanisms.
Susie Roy Technical Director – Water Quality and Catchment Management, WSP in the UK

 
Nature-based solutions for the built environment

The natural environment provides individuals, local communities, businesses, and wider society with numerous “ecosystem services” and amenities — stormwater management, clean air and water, healthier ecosystems, access to outdoors. We provide clients with nature-based solutions through green infrastructure that support ecosystem function by integrating biodiversity into the fabric of the built environment, such as constructed wetlands, vegetated roofs, living shorelines and wildlife corridors . This green infrastructure also plays a pivotal role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, contributing to a cooler and more sustainable urban environment. Additionally, Nature-based solutions also help in sequestering carbon and achieving net zero commitments.

Enhancing habitats and restoring ecosystems

Our hands-on capabilities also extend into the field. We design approaches for restoring habitat integrity and improving the processes and function of degraded ecological systems, leading to long-term recovery and resilience. Species inventories, habitat mapping and monitoring, wildlife connectivity assessments and the integration of biodiversity into Environmental and Social Impact Assessments further supports habitat enhancement.

As global leaders at the forefront of biodiversity impact assessments, we have helped develop industry standards, metrics, guidelines and tools related to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).

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It’s rewarding to have worked on an expansive portfolio of projects for aquatic and upland systems. The restoration of ecosystem processes and functions is a legacy for future generations.
Jennifer Brunton Senior Vice President, WSP in the US

What is WSP's approach to Nature-based Solutions?

WSP offers organizations strategic advice and guidance for integrating a nature-positive approach into ESG strategy, including alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This extends to public reporting that incorporates financial and ecological performance data.

We provide clients with in-house training, capacity building, bespoke toolkit development, and access to thought leadership through partnerships and applied research and development. These resources serve to assist organizations in comprehending the challenges and opportunities associated with nature-based solutions — and how they can serve to benefit clients, the natural world, and the communities in which we live, work, and play.

We've witnessed heightened interest from clients, often driven by community demand, across the water sector, local authorities, transport agencies, and private developers, regarding opportunities for adopting NbS to complement, enhance, and improve more traditionally engineered approaches.

NbS are potent tools but cannot serve as the sole solution to climate change  and related challenges, so WSP adopts a "twin track" approach with NBS and engineered solutions.

We focus on discovering synergies between 'grey' and 'green' solutions and seamlessly integrating them where possible.

 
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Find out how we’re helping our clients explore new approaches and discover new possibilities.

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Our work with Natural England

Restoring the ancient peat bogs of the Marches Mosses

WSP is part of an ambitious project in North Shropshire to restore 2,500 acres of lowland-raised peat bog - one of the world’s rarest habitats that prevents and mitigates the effects of climate change.

Watch the video and hear from our client, Natural England, on why they choose us to deliver this NbS project.

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Projects

A Natural Way to Clean Contaminated Soil and Groundwater in Hawaii
  

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How a Design with Nature Approach Builds Value into Port and Marine Developments

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Natural Remedy: How Rain Gardens are Keeping Marylebone’s Streets Flood-free

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Shoreline Restoration: ‘Protecting Community, Conserving the Coast’
 

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INSIGHTS

Pushing Contaminated Properties Across the Finish Line with Plant-Based Soil Remediation

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Ramona Gardens Natural Park, Los Angeles, USA
 

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