Enhancing Co-Benefits and reducing Flood Risks through Nature-based Solutions and Assessments: A Case Study in the Dead Sea Region of Jordan
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The integration of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a crucial step in the restoration of ecosystems and the mitigation of the effects of urbanization and climate-induced flooding. Moreover, National Statistical Policies (NSP) and SDGs have notably diminished flood and hydrogeological risk in developed countries. Nevertheless, developing countries like Jordan have encountered difficulties in implementing NSP and SDG. Accordingly, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of implementing NBS in the Jordanian Dead Sea (DS) area for the first time. To this end, a novel approach was proposed, integrating the NBS and SDGs with the SA-GIS and Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) approaches, with the objective of addressing the severe issue of urban floods in the DS area. Furthermore, a life-cycle cost-benefit analysis was employed to comprehensively assess costs and benefits over a specified time frame, utilizing key indicators such as Net Present Value (NPV) and the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR). The findings revealed that detention ponds, vegetated swales, rain gardens, and rainwater harvesting have BCR values exceeding one, suggesting that incorporating co-benefits into economic assessments significantly enhances the economic efficiency and viability of NBS. In conclusion, the proposed method can be applied globally and serves as a viable strategy for advancing sustainable urban growth and reducing the risk of disasters in developing countries like Jordan.
DOI: 10.48084/etasr.7944
Authors: Huseyin Gokcekus, Youssef Kassem, Nour Alijl
Institution: Near East University
Language: English
Subfield: Environmental Engineering
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $431
OpenAlex ID: W4403311151