Examining the Impact of Regulatory Measures on the Implementation of Nature-Based Solutions in Urban Water Management: Insights from Finland

Abstract

Climate adaptation and climate change prevention have become essential aspects of city planning. Urbanization and changing climatic conditions pose a threat to the sustainability of cities, and excess stormwater exacerbates these challenges by causing flooding and pollution of the receiving water bodies. To address these issues, cities must enhance the sustainability and climate resilience of their stormwater management systems. Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) offer a sustainable alternative to traditional grey infrastructure by providing water retention, detention, and pollutant reduction capabilities. Despite their numerous benefits, the adoption of NBS lags behind, with conventional solutions often being favored. Effective policy measures are crucial for promoting the integration of NBS into urban water management systems and aligning them with overall sustainability goals. This study uses multilevel analysis that begins with an examination of EU policies and national legislation to understand the regulatory landscape. The focus then shifts to local stormwater regulation practices, which are explored through interviews with stormwater experts from various cities. These interviews provide insights into the practicalities, functionality, and shortcomings of stormwater regulation practices. Finally, this study focuses on Turku, analyzing the impact of the Blue-Green Index (BGI), which has been used to direct new constructions to use Green Infrastructure and NBS. The analysis of Turku's construction plans serves as a real-world case study to evaluate the actual effects of BGI on NBS implementation. This research adds to the academic conversation by examining the complex relationship between regulatory measures and the practical application of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in urban water management. By analyzing decision-making processes at various levels, this study offers detailed insights into the difficulties and potential opportunities associated with promoting environmentally sustainable water solutions in cities. The findings of this research have significant implications for policymakers, urban planners, and environmental practitioners and could help inform strategies that encourage the adoption of NBS and create more resilient and sustainable urban water management systems.