This objective specifically aims to address challenges related to climate change adaptation and mitigation, water management and soil degradation in cities by using nature-based solutions and in doing so to strengthen the urban and peri-urban green-blue network.
Nature-based solutions are actions to protect, conserve, restore, sustainably use and manage natural or modified terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems which address social, economic and environmental challenges effectively and adaptively, while simultaneously providing human well-being, ecosystem services, resilience and biodiversity benefits. Nature-based solutions restore natural and modified ecosystems for their biodiversity values and address societal challenges such as climate change or natural disasters. In particular urban and peri-urban areas will be heavily affected by climate change, given the stronger impact of heat waves, water shortage, water floods, air pollution, etc. Applying nature-based solutions specifically in urban and peri-urban areas will support urban biodiversity while addressing several of these challenges and enhance the resilience of cities as well as the well-being of its citizens. Such actions will contribute to several goals regarding climate change adaptation and mitigation, water management, regulating floods, water purification and retention, reducing gas emissions and air purification, enhancing the CO2 storage capacity in soil, wetlands and forests, etc. as well as public health.
La ferme naturelle « Het Bolhuis » est une ferme d'élevage biologique qui travaille en étroite collaboration avec « Natuurpunt » et « Agentschap voor Natuur en Bos » (ANB).
Aquafin is a large consumer of electricity and made the choice several years ago to use only green and renewable electricity.
Our aim is to reduce the amount of concrete used. Less pavement means greater infiltration and a reduction in the warming effect.
Aquafin has more than 200 wastewater treatment plants in Flanders. Since 2021, all these plants are being converted into fully biodiverse locations and maintained as such.
There are also many service buildings within Aquafin's patrimony. These need to be systematically renovated.
The streets Zilverberkstraat and Leeuwerikstraat form an existing part of the town, but were completely redone. An ideal opportunity to rethink the approach to stormwater.