Nature-based Solutions for Water and Land Management

Cranfield University Nature based solutions, water and land management

Target Audience

The course is open to delegates from a variety of backgrounds, including environmental scientists, biologists, civil and environmental engineers, and those interested in using ecological principles to solve environmental challenges in urban and rural settings. This is a professional development course that thrives on the diversity of viewpoints and backgrounds, reflecting the varied expertise and context in which NbS can be applied.

Description

With the ever increasing need to deliver sustainable solutions for water and land management worldwide, being able to assess potential nature based solutions (NbS) in different contexts will become a key skill for all designers, regulators, consultants, academics, and NGOs involved in environmental studies. The course is supported by the International Water Association, the Constructed Wetland Association (CWA)British Water and The Nature Conservancy.

 

Core contents:
  • Principles of ecological engineering and NbS context,
  • Environmental and economic quantification of NbS benefits,
  • Ecosystem services and life cycle analysis,
  • The importance of multipurpose designs,
  • Treatment wetlands for water and wastewater treatment,
  • Sustainable urban drainage systems,
  • Green roofs and green walls,
  • Natural flood management strategies,
  • Ecosystem restoration and biodiversity net gain,
  • Integrating NbS in the circular economy,
  • Implementation and funding guidance.
  • Regenerative agriculture.

Learning Objectives

On successful completion of this course you will be able to:

  • Describe, contextualise and explain nature-based solutions to technical and non-technical audiences,
  • Assess benefits from an economic, social and environmental standpoint,
  • Recognise best practice and identify current limitations of nature-based solutions,
  • Identify trade-offs of nature-based solutions in different contexts,
  • Understand the barriers and enablers for successful implementation of NbS schemes.

A 20% discount is available for IWA members.