By Mohit Kumar Singh
As the world continues to witness climate change, finding new ways to help mitigate the effects of it is crucial. Green infrastructure is among the most important ways to combat climate change. Not only does green infrastructure help mitigate the effects of a warming climate, but it also helps local communities by providing green spaces, clean water, and so much more.
Increased pollution, climate change, and resource fatigue have led to insufficient traditional infrastructure solutions. The answer lies in switching green infrastructure paradigms that integrate natural ecosystems into urban landscapes and improve ecological sustainability by increasing resistance.
Green infrastructure is a human-managed network of natural ecosystems that benefits the population by improving ecosystem health and resilience, contributing to biological diversity, and maintaining and improving ecosystem services. For instance by including green infrastructure in urban planning, cities can promote sustainable development and create healthier environments for current and future generations.
Indian infrastructure agencies,like NHAI, have even adapted the green way of traveling. Whether it is about bamboo crash barriers or cloverleaf interchanges, NHAI is trying to find innovative ways to promote green infrastructure. Another breakthrough case study is of the Miyawaki method from Japan for the green infrastructure revolution.
Green infrastructure has many benefits which include:
Storm-Water Management: In urban areas, green infrastructure can help to manage storm-water runoff by reducing the amount of water that enters the sewer system. This can reduce the risk of flooding and improve water quality in rivers and lakes. It can be a rain garden, permeable pavements, etc.
Air Quality Improvement: Green infrastructure can help to improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and producing oxygen. In a study conducted by the Indian Institute of Science, it was found that the green cover in Bangalore city can help to reduce air pollution by up to 40%. Urban forests, street trees, and green roofs are all examples of green infrastructure that can improve air quality.
Public health: Green infrastructure provides opportunities for physical activity, relaxation, and social interaction, all of which can have positive impacts on public health. In a study conducted by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, it was found that people who lived closer to green spaces in Nagpur city reported better mental health and physical well-being.
Biodiversity conservation: Green infrastructure can help to conserve biodiversity by providing habitat for wildlife in urban areas. In a study conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, it was found that urban green spaces in Mumbai city support a diverse range of plant and animal species. Examples of green infrastructure for biodiversity conservation include green roofs, urban forests, and wildlife corridors.
The implementation of green infrastructure is a dynamic and complex process that has far-reaching positive effects on the environment, society, and the economy. This process is not only a response to the pressing challenges of climate change and urbanization, but it also prioritizes nature recovery and the well-being of city dwellers.
Green infrastructure is a crucial component of creating sustainable, livable communities. It can provide economic benefits such as increased property values, reduced infrastructure costs, and job creation. While challenges such as cost, maintenance, and limited awareness exist, collaborative efforts between stakeholders, education and awareness campaigns, and innovative financing solutions can help to overcome these challenges. By embracing green infrastructure, Indian cities can create healthier, more resilient, and more equitable communities for all citizens.
In conclusion, it should be noted that the promotion of green infrastructure is not only an ecological necessity. It is also an opportunity for cities to position themselves as pioneers in the response to global challenges.
(The author is Mohit Kumar Singh, Founder: Detox Traveller, and the views expressed in this article are his own)
