Nature – Based Solution for Climate Change and Sustainable Development

Course Outline

Course Overview

This course is designed to provide participants with a deep understanding of nature-based solutions (NbS) and their role in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. Participants will explore various approaches that harness the power of ecosystems and biodiversity to mitigate and adapt to climate change, enhance resilience, and contribute to broader sustainability goals. This course will employ a combination of lectures, case studies, guest speakers, continuous assessment through quizzes and assignments, and field visits to ensure participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in nature-based solutions for climate change and sustainable development.

 

Module 1: Introduction to Nature-Based Solutions

• Definition and principles of nature-based solutions
• Linkages between ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate change
• Importance of nature-based solutions in sustainable development

Module 2: Ecosystem Services and Climate Regulation

• Understanding ecosystem services and their value
• Role of ecosystems in regulating climate patterns
• Carbon sequestration and storage in natural systems

Module 3: Biodiversity Conservation and Climate Resilience

• Importance of biodiversity for ecosystem stability
• Ecosystem-based adaptation strategies
• Conserving and restoring biodiversity for climate resilience

Module 4: Forest-Based Solutions

• Forest ecosystems and their climate mitigation potential
• Sustainable forest management and reforestation
• Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+)

Module 5: Wetlands and Coastal Ecosystems

• Wetland conservation and restoration
• Coastal ecosystem management for climate resilience
• Blue carbon and the role of mangroves in climate change mitigation

Module 6: Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture

• Integration of nature-based practices in agriculture
• Agroforestry and sustainable land management
• Soil health and carbon sequestration in agricultural systems

Module 7: Urban Green Infrastructure

• Green spaces and urban biodiversity
• Sustainable urban planning and design
• Green roofs, urban forests, and their climate benefits

Module 8: Nature-Based Solutions for Water Management

• Natural water retention measures
• Watershed management and restoration
• Ecosystem-based approaches to water quality improvement

Module 9: Indigenous Knowledge and Community Involvement

• Traditional ecological knowledge and nature-based practices
• Engaging local communities in nature-based solutions
• Indigenous perspectives on climate change and sustainability

Module 10: Policy and Governance for Nature-Based Solutions

• National and international policies supporting nature-based solutions
• Financing mechanisms for nature-based projects
• Integrating nature-based solutions into climate and development planning