CIB TG97 seminar on Nature-based Solutions for Climate Resilient Buildings and Communities –
October 21st at 8 a.m. EST (GMT – 4).
Nature-based solutions (NBS) for the built environment, also known as green or natural infrastructure, are measures that use nature and natural features to address risks, deliver services, and meet societal needs. These solutions are effective across a range of conditions and provide numerous benefits, including carbon sequestration, water purification, biodiversity enhancement, green growth, and improved mental well-being.
Both Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan and National Adaptation Strategy emphasize the importance of NBS, with organizations like the Canadian Climate Institute and the Canadian Council of Academies highlighting their role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. On the international front, NBS support multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the UNEP’s Good Practice Principles for Sustainable Infrastructure recommend prioritizing these solutions. As such, it is important to integrate nature into our built environment to enhance the climate resiliency of our built environment.
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming virtual meeting on CIB TG97, “Nature-based Solutions for Climate Resilient Buildings and Communities,” scheduled for Monday, October 21st at 8 a.m. EST. This meeting provides a valuable opportunity for all members to share ongoing projects, exchange innovative ideas, and explore potential collaborations in the field of NBS.
Your participation is crucial to the success of this meeting. We encourage you to join the conversation, contribute your valuable insights, and help drive forward NBS initiatives. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in promoting sustainable and resilient building practices.
Agenda
- Welcome and Introductions (15 minutes)
- A warm welcome, thanking Dr. Michael Lacasse for his contributions as the previous chair, followed by an introduction of the new co-chair.
- Roundtable introductions of all participants, with a few minutes for each to share their NBS activities.
- Overview of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) (15 minutes)
- Presenters: Dr. Zahra Jandaghian and Prof. Dr. Hua Ge
- Discussion on the definition and significance of NBS, TG097 objectives, and current global trends and initiatives.
- NBS Implementation Case Studies (30 minutes)
- Presenter: Four Invited Speaker(s) from: Australia, Canada, Germany, and USA
- Each presenter will explain their successful NBS projects in five minutes, focusing on lessons learned and best practices.
- Discussion Session: National and International Challenges and Opportunities (20 minutes)
- Facilitator: Dr. Zahra Jandaghian
- A discussion on specific regional challenges, opportunities, potential collaborative projects, and research areas.
- Open floor for questions and further discussions.
- Future Collaboration and Next Steps (5 minutes)
- Hosts: Prof. Dr. Hua Ge and Dr. Zahra Jandaghian
- Discussion on collaborative projects, establishing timelines, and assigning responsibilities for next steps.
- Summary and Closing Remarks (5 minutes)
- A summary of key points and decisions, final thoughts, and acknowledgements.
- Information on the next meeting and follow-up communication.
