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AMID accelerating climate change, the increasing value of carbon capture and the degradation of biodiversity globally, the concept of “Nature as Infrastructure” arrives at a pivotal moment. It mitigates the impact of human development on nature. It includes direct investments in nature assets to sustain critical infrastructure-like services and integrates nature-based solutions into infrastructure design to enhance climate resilience.
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) launched its report titled “Nature as Infrastructure” with a panel discussion at its COP28 pavilion.
After saying that it is “high time for us to come to terms with nature,” AIIB President and Chairman of the Board of Directors Jin Liqun added, “Our ambition must be to turn the idea of nature as infrastructure from an abstract concept into an impactful asset class that commands increasing levels of investment and regulatory attention.”
Drawing on extensive data and case studies from all over the world, the report discusses how nature can provide infrastructure-like services. It shares examples of how better design can mitigate the impact of gray infrastructure and help people build greener infrastructure.
For example, tree planting in the northern countries of China was found to have a beneficial impact on dust conditions in countries further south without compromising agricultural productivity. Mangrove planting in Indonesia was found to reduce losses from tidal floods, and the wetlands of Bangladesh support critical primary industries and livelihoods.
All these examples demonstrate the importance of testing the best solutions customized to the local environment. Successfully and sustainably harnessing nature as infrastructure requires scientific research, effective implementation, consultation and engagement with local communities, and a combination of policy incentives, including short-term fiscal support and commercial investments.
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