Nature-based solutions are not a one-size fits all approach to hazard mitigation. Instead, these approaches can be adapted to meet the mitigation needs of the community. Nature-based solutions incorporate natural features and processes to provide a similar level of protection achieved by traditional engineered infrastructure or “gray infrastructure” (such as seawalls, water treatments plants, pipes, and dams, etc.).
Nature-based solutions can be stand-alone mitigation projects that do not include traditional or gray infrastructure measures. These projects rely entirely on natural features or processes to achieve risk reduction. Floodplain and wetland restoration projects are stand-alone nature-based solutions that can reduce flood risk at the landscape or watershed scale. Xeriscaping and rain gardens are also examples of nature-based solutions that provide risk reduction without gray infrastructure.
Applicants can also take a hybrid approach by incorporating nature-based solutions within traditional mitigation projects or develop a stand-alone nature-based solutions mitigation project. Hybrid methods are a combination of engineered or gray infrastructure and nature-based solutions. Examples of hybrid measures include, but are not limited to, marsh-levee system or dune-dyke systems, living seawalls, green ripraps, and artificial reefs. In addition, there are instances where hard features can be ‘softened’ through vegetation or similar nature-based features. Including elements of nature-based solutions in a traditional mitigation project can increase effectiveness, while also providing environmental, economic and/or social co-benefits.
Depending on the type of project, desired risk reduction, and available resources, the level of nature-based solutions in a mitigation project will vary. Nature-based solutions are still novel for many communities and may provide an opportunity to incorporate innovation into more traditional risk reduction projects. FEMA encourages communities to incorporate nature-based solutions in mitigation projects to reduce risk to natural hazards and climate change, support economic development, improve quality of life in communities and provide environmental benefits.