Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) Retrofits for Flood-Prone Schools in Surakarta City, Indonesia

Abstract

Severe and recurring floods pose significant challenges to urban areas, particularly impacting essential public infrastructure such as schools. Flooding results from complex factors, including river overflow, aging drainage systems, rapid urbanization, and reduced natural infiltration, all of which compromise educational continuity and equity in vulnerable communities. Schools in flood-prone regions experience persistent disruption to learning environments, facility damage, and diminished educational access. This study investigates nature-based solutions (NbS) as an innovative retrofitting approach to enhance flood resilience in vulnerable schools, particularly in Surakarta City, Central Java, Indonesia. Nature-based interventions, including biopores, bioswales, infiltration wells and trenches, permeable pavements, and vegetative enhancements, were designed and implemented through an integrated methodology combining technical assessments, spatial analysis, and participatory stakeholder engagement. Results demonstrate that context-specific NbS retrofits significantly reduce runoff and mitigate flood impacts during frequent, moderate rainfall events, while delivering co-benefits such as enhanced biodiversity, reduced urban temperatures, improved water quality, and strengthened community participation. However, NbS effectiveness is limited during extreme rainfall events, underscoring the need to integrate NbS into comprehensive resilience strategies that combine green infrastructure with conventional systems and adaptive management approaches. The research underscores that sustainable flood resilience in vulnerable school settings requires synergistic integration of technical design expertise and active community involvement, ultimately advancing educational equity and urban sustainability.