WASHINGTON, D.C. – Nature-based solutions can successfully help protect people, reduce property damage, and mitigate the impacts of the climate crisis, all while building stronger, healthier communities and ecosystems. According to a new report, these nature-based approaches are versatile and have been successfully adapted across small-scale homeowner and neighborhood projects along with larger-scale community projects.

“These stories from across the country are illustrative reminders that natural infrastructure approaches are not limited by scale or scope,” said Jessie Ritter, associate vice president for water and coasts at the National Wildlife Federation. “Nature can be a powerful ally in our work to both address the climate crisis and help mitigate its worst impacts for people and wildlife alike. We can all make an impact by implementing natural features in our homes, workplaces, and communities.”

“As an insurance company, we are committed to reducing risk to people and property globally. The collection of successes in this report highlights that adopting nature-based solutions can not only protect, but enrich and beautify our communities,” said Wesley Dupont, chief operating officer of the Allied World Group. 

“From a modest raingarden on a residential property, to a sprawling living shoreline project that helps shield an entire coastal community, nature’s impact can be profound,” said Emily Donahoe, policy specialist for resilient coasts and floodplains at the National Wildlife Federation. “With this report, we hope to help people visualize the many ways that nature can be integrated into our communities, and the corresponding benefits that it provides.”

The report, developed by the National Wildlife Federation in partnership with Allied World, also showcases the additional benefits of investing in natural infrastructure including cleaner air and water, recreational opportunities, wildlife enhancement, and economic benefits like job creation.