Nature-based solutions the role of master plans in promoting sustainable cities

Abstract

: This study aims to analyze the integration between Master Plans and Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) as a significant advancement in the pursuit of more resilient and sustainable cities. The research seeks to understand how Master Plans can be leveraged to implement large-scale NbS, promoting urban sustainability and environmental protection through land use and occupation control. The integration between Master Plans and NbS represents a major step forward in aligning with sustainable urban management principles and environmental safeguarding. NbS, which utilize natural processes to address environmental challenges within urban infrastructure, can find in Master Plans a fundamental tool for large-scale implementation, as well as a guiding model for long-term planning. Based on an understanding of these models, the study proposes socio-environmental practices, programs, and projects tailored to local needs, including the creation of urban digital platforms to register and monitor environmental initiatives. These platforms would also incorporate monitoring data to assess the evolution of key elements and evaluate the effectiveness of NbS implementations. This enables objective conclusions about the impact of such actions, positive or otherwise, and provides a foundation for continuous improvement. The adopted research methodology involved bibliographic and documentary review, focusing on laws and institutional arrangements that support the implementation of NbS at the municipal level. Ultimately, strengthening and capacitating municipal administrations enhances their ability to meet residents’ needs. Universities can contribute by transferring technology, generating knowledge applied to concrete challenges, and empowering the expertise within public administrations. It is imperative to study ways of engaging key stakeholders in this global transition, their adaptations, and initiatives, such as corporate citizenship and urban legislative practices, encompassing concepts, scope, regulation (where applicable), strategic directions, and intersections with urban issues, particularly in the sectors of bioeconomy, biotechnology, disaster prevention and recovery, environmental preservation, and urban quality.