Green and blue infrastructure (GBI) and urban nature-based solutions (NbS) contribution to human and ecological well-being and health

Abstract

Abstract The article explores the contributions of urban green and blue infrastructure (UGBI) and nature-based solutions (NbS) to enhance human and ecological well-being and health in urban areas. It delves into the concepts of UGBI and NbS, highlighting their importance in creating sustainable and liveable cities. We consider UGBI natural elements in the urban environment, grouped into different typologies. NbS are considered solutions, or actions, to promote environmental and human health based on the use of UGBI. The assessment was done under the umbrella of human and ecosystem health, linking well-being dimensions from the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services—freedom of choice, social relations, mental health, physical health, food security and physical security—with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, showing a link with 12 of the 15 goals. The article presents non-exhaustive lists of UGBI types and NbS actions linked to well-being dimensions. We assess ecosystem services provided by GBI and NbS and the implications of incorporating these solutions in urban environments for human and ecosystem health and the future of healthy and liveable cities.