Baku: On May 19, an international event titled 'Nature-Based Solutions for Resilient Arab Cities: From Local Action to Urban Transformation' was held as part of the WUF13 at the UN-Habitat Arena in the Baku Olympic Stadium. The event was organized by UN-Habitat with the support of the Islamic Development Bank, gathering representatives from international organizations, city administrations, sustainable development experts, environmentalists, and urban planners. Discussions centered on the role of nature-based solutions in transforming modern cities in the Arab world, focusing on environmentally sustainable approaches in urban planning, infrastructure development, and climate change adaptation.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Idrissa Dia, Acting Director of the Sustainability and Climate Action Department at the Islamic Development Bank, addressed the participants via video message. He highlighted that rapid urbanization, water scarcity, rising temperatures, and environmental degradation pose significant challenges for cities across the Middle East and North Africa. Nature-based solutions are seen as an effective way to enhance urban resilience.
Rania Hedeya, Regional Director of UN-Habitat ROAS, delivered a presentation emphasizing the necessity of integrating nature-based solutions into public policy for sustainable urban development. She stressed the importance of active local community engagement and international cooperation to create cities that are inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and resilient to climate risks.
Experts at the event showcased examples of successful green infrastructure, such as urban parks, ecosystem restoration, sustainable water systems, and greener public spaces. These initiatives benefit the environment, improve quality of life, enhance social resilience, and provide economic opportunities. Discussions also covered financing environmental projects and strengthening partnerships between financial institutions and municipalities, with the Islamic Development Bank emphasizing its support for innovative, climate-resilient urban initiatives.
Participants explored city-to-city experience sharing and the development of education and research in sustainable urbanism, emphasizing that local initiatives can drive large-scale urban transformation and improve urban safety and livability. The event underscored the role of WUF13 in Baku in bringing together global stakeholders to tackle urban challenges, with organizers stating that the discussions would enhance international cooperation and promote nature-based approaches in urban policy across the Arab region.