Soil and Water Bioengineering as Natural-Based Solutions

Abstract

Soil and water bioengineering (SWB) is a discipline that combines technology with biology, making use of native plants and plant communities as construction material for erosion control in degraded environments. The term engineering refers to the use of technical and scientific data for constructive, stabilization and erosion control purposes and “bio” because these functions are related to living organisms, mainly native plants with biotechnical characteristics and with the purpose of restoring ecosystems and increasing biodiversity. In this approach, native plant communities’ potential is a key factor to achieve the overall objectives of planned interventions. SWB work designs involve both the integration of intrinsic adaptive information processes and legitimate design approaches (i.e. engagement of stakeholders into the project and work strategy). SWB encompass nature-based solutions (NBSs) which offer sustainable solutions in order to mitigate and adapt to climate change and effective restoration approaches suitable for degraded situations. Nowadays there is a rising awareness that nature is a very powerful source of viable solutions that use and deploy the properties of natural ecosystems and services. SWB practice is in accordance with the principles of NBSs “inspired and supported by nature”. Nature-based solutions provide sustainable, cost-effective, multipurpose and flexible alternatives for various objectives: technical, ecological, landscape integration and socioeconomics. In this context, SWB techniques offer interesting synergies with urban green and blue infrastructure strategies.