Urban Nature-Based Solutions are gaining attention for their ability to reduce urban heat, air pollution, and flooding. According to a recent study by ICTA-UAB, published in Sustainable Cities and Society, these initiatives—such as green roofs—can also generate negative global impacts due to the resources used in their construction and lifecycle emissions.
A framework to measure complex environmental impacts
The ICTA-UAB research team, led by David Camacho-Caballero, developed a new analytical framework that assesses both the local and global consequences of Urban Nature-Based Solutions. This tool links local socio-ecological vulnerabilities, such as heat and runoff, to broader global challenges like climate change and eutrophication.
Oslo case study reveals trade-offs of green roof expansion
The framework was tested in Oslo, Norway, using four green roof implementation scenarios. While these solutions reduced local issues like lack of green space and air pollution, they also increased pressure on global systems due to material demand and emissions across the supply chain. The researchers conducted a detailed lifecycle analysis to map these outcomes.
Stakeholder input helps define a balanced scenario
To address the environmental trade-offs, the study involved local stakeholders in Oslo using a multi-criteria analysis (MCA). The research identifies a scenario where green roofs are implemented on 68% of suitable rooftops—prioritizing the most vulnerable neighborhoods—while keeping global impacts within safe boundaries. This was identified as the “most favorable scenario”.
A scalable planning tool for sustainable urban development
As reported by ICTA-UAB in their official press release, this framework provides a decision-support tool for urban planners worldwide. It allows cities to align Urban Nature-Based Solutions with both local sustainability goals and the broader limits of the Earth system. The study is published in Sustainable Cities and Society and available at sciencedirect.com
