Overcoming challenges for implementing nature-based solutions in deltaic environments: insights from the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta in Bangladesh

Gain, A. K. et al. (2022) Overcoming challenges for implementing nature-based solutions in deltaic environments: insights from the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta in Bangladesh. Environmental Research Letters, 17(6), 064052. (doi: 10.1088/1748-9326/ac740a)

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Abstract

The Ganges-Brahmaputra (GB) delta is one of the most disaster-prone areas in the world due to a combination of high population density and exposure to tropical cyclones, floods, salinity intrusion and other hazards. Due to the complexity of natural deltaic processes and human influence on these processes, structural solutions like embankments are inadequate on their own for effective hazard mitigation. This article examines nature-based solutions (NbSs) as a complementary or alternative approach to managing hazards in the GB delta. We investigate the potential of NbS as a complementary and sustainable method for mitigating the impacts of coastal disaster risks, mainly cyclones and flooding. Using the emerging framework of NbS principles, we evaluate three existing approaches: tidal river management, mangrove afforestation, and oyster reef cultivation, all of which are actively being used to help reduce the impacts of coastal hazards. We also identify major challenges (socioeconomic, biophysical, governance and policy) that need to be overcome to allow broader application of the existing approaches by incorporating the NbS principles. In addition to addressing GB delta-specific challenges, our findings provide more widely applicable insights into the challenges of implementing NbS in deltaic environments globally.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:AK Gain gratefully acknowledge Marie Skłodowska-Curie Grant Agreement No. 787419, under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program. AL, FGR and TB acknowledge the support of UK Research and Innovation through grant support for the UKRI GCRF Living Deltas Hub (Reference NE/S008926/1).
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Renaud, Professor Fabrice and Balke, Dr Thorsten
Authors: Gain, A. K., Rahman, M. M., Sadik, M. S., Adnan, M. S. G., Ahmad, S., Ahsan, S. M. M., Ashik-Ur-Rahman, M., Balke, T., Datta, D. K., Dewan, C., Huq, N., Khan, M. S. A., Large, A., Mallick, B., Mohibbullah, M., Mondal, M. S., Narayan, S., Rabbani, G., Rahman, R., Renaud, F. G., Rogers, K. G., and van Loon-Steensma, J. M.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Geographical and Earth Sciences
College of Social Sciences > School of Social & Environmental Sustainability
Journal Name:Environmental Research Letters
Publisher:IOP Publishing
ISSN:1748-9326
ISSN (Online):1748-9326
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2022 The Authors
First Published:First published in Environmental Research Letters 17(6):064052
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

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