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Maximizing Benefits to Nature and Society in Techno-Ecological Innovation for Water

Author

Listed:
  • Isaac Dekker

    (Department of Geography, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
    Authors contributed equally.)

  • Shabnam Sharifyazd

    (Department of Civil Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
    Authors contributed equally.)

  • Evans Batung

    (Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
    Authors contributed equally.)

  • Kristian L. Dubrawski

    (Department of Geography, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
    Department of Civil Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada)

Abstract

Nature-based solutions (NbS) build upon the proven contribution of well-managed and diverse ecosystems to enhance resilience of human societies. They include alternatives to techno-industrial solutions that aim to enhance social-ecological integration by providing simultaneous benefits to nature (such as biodiversity protection and green/blue space) and society (such as ecosystem services and climate resiliency). Yet, many NbS exhibit aspects of a technological or engineered ecosystem integrated into nature; this techno-ecological coupling has not been widely considered. In this work, our aim is to investigate this coupling through a high-level and cross-disciplinary analysis of NbS for water security (quantity, quality, and/or water-related risk) across the spectrums of naturalness, biota scale, and benefits to nature and society. Within the limitations of our conceptual analysis, we highlight the clear gap between “nature” and “nature-based” for most NbS. We present a preliminary framework for advancing innovation efforts in NbS towards maximizing benefits to both nature and society, and offer examples in biophysical innovation and innovation to maximize techno-ecological synergies (TES).

Suggested Citation

  • Isaac Dekker & Shabnam Sharifyazd & Evans Batung & Kristian L. Dubrawski, 2021. "Maximizing Benefits to Nature and Society in Techno-Ecological Innovation for Water," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(11), pages 1-16, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:11:p:6400-:d:568834
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mahta Talebzadeh & Caterina Valeo & Rishi Gupta & C. Peter Constabel, 2021. "Exploring the Potential in LID Technologies for Remediating Heavy Metals in Carwash Wastewater," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(16), pages 1-15, August.

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