A System Dynamics framework to understand and quantify urban built, natural and human environment interdependencies

Abstract:

Urban natural capital and nature based solutions (NBS) perform important functions which can address sustainability challenges and improve societal resilience to adverse change. A city park with blue and green space for example, can strengthen biodiversity, regulate urban temperature and reduce flood risk. Accessible natural space can also provide public amenity; improving users’ health and well-being. In UK cities, the importance of accessible green space was particularly evident during the recent COVID-19 lockdown. Yet, NBS are seen as a low-priority addition to (re)development schemes. The establishment of NBS as a key inclusion within (re)development requires identifying their beneficial impacts to the built, natural and human environments.

Using London case studies to explore interdependencies between the human, built and natural environment, we present a systems framework to build understanding on how NBS can improve urban resilience and sustainability while assessing the performance of different land use types. The framework is developed using participatory systems approach, using insights and information collected from key stakeholders in the study area, including planning and regulatory authorities, local councils, water companies’ developers and resident facing NGO’s. The framework will generate evidence on the role NBS can play in urban settings, promoting their recognition as high-priority infrastructure among funders and users. This research will highlight the importance of high-quality urban natural capital in our cities, improving the long-term resilience of our urban spaces.