Urban Challenges and Nature-Based Solutions

Urban Challenges and Nature-Based Solutions

Urban Challenges and Nature-Based Solutions

Mar 27, 2024

The relationship between stress and sleep disturbance affects a significant portion of the Spanish population, with an even greater incidence in urban environments characterized by sensory saturation and lack of green areas. This is revealed by a study conducted Cigna Healthcare: in Spain, where more than 12 million people do not rest adequately, and more than 4 million have some type of chronic and severe sleep disorder, according to data from the Spanish Society of Neurology (SEN).

A report that highlights the main challenges faced by city dwellers regarding their sleep quality: from noise and light pollution to high levels of stress, accelerated pace of life, urban mobility, sedentary lifestyle, and poor air quality.

In the last 15 years, the availability of urban green spaces in major global cities has increased by 4.11%, while their accessibility has increased by 7.1%.

Effective Strategy

While cities host the majority of the world’s population and are responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions, they also play a crucial role in mitigating biodiversity loss and climate change. To achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement, a 43% reduction in atmospheric emissions is required in the coming years.

An effective strategy to achieve more sustainable and resilient cities involves integrating nature into their management and design. These nature-based solutions protect and restore ecosystems sustainably, promoting biodiversity, improving air quality, and ensuring food and water resource security.

Introduction of Vegetation

One of the major challenges is introducing vegetation in streets where planting trees is not feasible. In some streets, planting very large trees is not possible due to limited space or lack of sunlight due to buildings.

An innovative way to address this challenge is by implementing nature-based solutions with our modular Fytotextile® system. A system that allows for the introduction of vegetation in urban areas where traditional planting may not be viable due to space or sunlight limitations.

For example? The use of the Fytotextile® system has allowed for the creation of an optimal growing medium for vegetation development in the streets of London, with the installation of green columns that have contributed to improving the urban environment and the quality of life for residents.

If you’re also looking to improve your urban environment, don’t hesitate to contact Terapia Urbana for help and specialized guidance.