Mitigating urban heat island effect with nature based solutions in indian cities

Abstract

Urban heat island, which is a complex function of some anthropogenic and environmental issues, has become a major concern in Indian cities. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS), like green, blue, and gray infrastructure, offer one of the best solutions to reduce the impact of the urban heat island effect. This technique is an environment-friendly solution that lessens the detrimental effects of climate change, reduces carbon emissions, and increases building energy efficiency while also improving the health and well-being of urban residents in the most resource-efficient way possible. This makes cities more resilient by improving urban microclimates, restoring nature, and enhancing the overall quality of urban ecosystems. This review is an attempt to understand the potential of nature-based solutions for mitigating urban heat in Indian cities in light of the DPSIR model. The study was conducted by reviewing a wide range of research articles, feedback pieces, short notes, and review papers published in scholarly journals. A framework for the planning and design of nature-based solutions is proposed based on the review that could help city planners and decision-makers address the issue. Some recommendations have also been suggested to successfully implement the strategy.