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Nature-Based Solutions

Nature-based solutions are sustainable planning, design, environmental management and engineering practices that weave natural features or processes into the built environment to promote adaptation and resilience. These solutions use natural features and processes to:

  • Combat climate change
  • Reduce flood risk
  • Improve water quality
  • Protect coastal property
  • Restore and protect wetlands
  • Stabilize shorelines
  • Reduce urban heat
  • Add recreational space
  • And more

A picture of a beach with a parachute in the background.
Dune restoration is an example of nature-based solutions that can be federally funded.

Nature-based solutions offer significant monetary and non-monetary benefits. They often come at a lower cost than traditional infrastructure.

These benefits include economic growth, green jobs, increased property values and better public health.

While FEMA uses the term "nature-based solutions," other organizations use related terms, such as green infrastructure, natural infrastructure, natural and nature-based features, or Engineering with Nature®, a program of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

As a best practice, use the term that best resonates with your target audience.

Get Started with Nature-Based Solutions

Guides

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Nature-Based Solutions report cover

Guide for Local Communities
The first guide provides foundational information on the benefits associated with using nature-based solutions to advance natural hazard mitigation and climate adaptation.

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This is a cover image of the guide. It has a blue background and a child playing in a crowded park.

Strategies for Success
The second guide builds upon the first and highlights five key strategies for implementing successful nature-based solution projects to advance natural hazard mitigation and climate adaptation.

Types

Nature-based solutions can be applied at different scales. Browse practices in three categories:

  • Watershed or landscape-scale
  • Neighborhood or site-scale
  • Coastal practices

View all types of practices.

Funding

FEMA has grant programs dedicated to restoring community infrastructure, increasing resilience and reducing risk. An approved mitigation plan is required to apply for and receive certain FEMA non-emergency assistance.

Explore grants and success stories.

Planning

Building nature-based solutions requires governmental and non-governmental organizations to work together. Find resources to help:

  • Collaborate with partners
  • Update existing plans
  • Understand regulations

View all planning resources.

Training Opportunities

Federal agencies offer online courses to help build knowledge and implementation of nature-based solutions.

Explore courses.

Other Resources

Continuously updated, we've collected reports, blogs, webinars, external sources and other resources to help support the pursuit of nature-based solutions.

View all resources.