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Seaside Sustainability: Nature-Based Solutions

Nature Based Solutions for New England: Reconnecting with Nature

Welcome to our platform focused on Nature Based Solutions (NBS) in the New England region. Investigate innovative and environmentally beneficial approaches to deepen our connection to nature and address pressing environmental issues. Discover a range of NBS organized by application and area, enabling you to make wise decisions for a greener future.

What are Nature-Based Solutions?

Nature-based solutions relate to the utilization of natural systems and processes to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable development. These solutions are crucial for minimizing the consequences of climate change and safeguarding the long-term health and resilience of ecosystems. Aquatic Environments, Sustainable Agriculture, Sustainable Forestry, and Urban Spaces are the four primary categories of nature-based solutions.

Aquatic environments include many different ecosystems, such as rivers, lakes, marshes, and coastal regions. In these places, nature-based solutions may include restoring or maintaining natural ecosystems, enhancing water quality, and introducing sustainable fishing techniques.

Aquatic Environments

Sustainable agriculture is employing farming systems that have a low environmental effect while also maintaining food security and economic viability. Agroforestry, cover cropping, and conservation tillage are examples of nature-based solutions in this field.

Sustainable Agriculture

In order to minimize stormwater runoff and enhance air quality, nature-based solutions in urban areas may include the installation of green infrastructure, such as green roofs and permeable pavement. They may also include the restoration or creation of green areas such as parks and gardens to improve biodiversity and community well-being.

Urban Spaces

Sustainable forestry focuses on forest management that balances economic, environmental, and social concerns. Reforestation, forest protection, and sustainable logging techniques are examples of nature-based solutions in this area.

Sustainable Forestry

Investigate the Four Types of Nature-Based Solutions:

A Look at EPA's Resources for Resilience and Adaptation in New England:

The Resilience and Adaptation in New England (RAINE) initiative is a collection of vulnerability, resilience, and websites that serve as tools to assist other communities in the New England Region in developing and implementing nature-based solutions. Take a look at some projects and potential resources.

Review the Six New England States' Nature-Based Solutions

Connecticut is taking significant steps towards mitigating climate change by promoting nature-based solutions. The state is investing in green infrastructure, such as urban forests and green roofs, sustainable land use practices, and renewable energy sources. Connecticut has also set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a green economy, including a target to reduce emissions by 45% below 2001 levels by 2030. The state's Climate Change Preparedness and Resilience Plan identifies actions to improve the resilience of natural and built systems to climate change impacts.

Connecticut

Maine's vast forested areas provide an excellent opportunity for nature-based solutions to mitigate climate change. The state government is actively promoting sustainable forestry practices, such as selective harvesting, to reduce carbon emissions. Maine is also promoting innovative solutions like green infrastructure, coastal restoration, and conservation actions to mitigate climate change effects.

Maine

Massachusetts is at the forefront of climate change mitigation efforts, including nature-based solutions. The state is investing in green infrastructure, coastal resiliency, and promoting renewable energy sources. Massachusetts has also set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a green economy. The state's Climate Change Adaptation Plan identifies strategies and actions to reduce the risks of climate change impacts, such as flooding and sea-level rise.

Massachusetts

New Hampshire has a diverse landscape, from the White Mountains to the coastline, making it an ideal place for nature-based solutions to combat climate change. The state has implemented several initiatives, such as sustainable land use practices, like preventing urban sprawl and protecting farmland and forests from development. New Hampshire is also promoting green infrastructure, such as bioswales and rain gardens, and has set a goal to power the state with renewable energy by 2040.

New Hampshire

Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US, but it is making a significant impact in climate change mitigation. The state is promoting green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and green roofs, coastal restoration, and renewable energy sources. Rhode Island has also set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and transition to a green economy. The state's Climate Change Action Plan identifies actions to reduce emissions, enhance resilience, and promote the transition to a green economy.

Rhode Island

Vermont is known for its natural beauty, and the state government is taking steps to preserve it. Vermont is moving towards a green economy by promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry, green infrastructure, and renewable energy. The state is also focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy efficiency. Vermont's Agency of Natural Resources has also developed the Vermont Climate Action Plan to guide the state's initiatives in mitigating climate change.

Vermont

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