Use of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) by Brazilian Public Administration on Urban Stormwater Management

Abstract

This article highlights the use of Nature-based Solutions as a complementary alternative adopted by Brazilian public administration for the management of urban rainwater. The increase in soil sealing resulting from urbanization, climate change, environmental degradation and water pollution, in addition to the hydrological challenges of this century, have driven the search for sustainable options to reduce the overload on traditional drainage systems that cause flooding and inundation, improve water quality, increase urban resilience and the appreciation of the natural environment and its benefits. In this context, this work aims to elucidate the use of these techniques in Urban Drainage Master Plans and respective Urban Drainage Manuals, indispensable regulatory tools, in a national context. This investigation is methodologically defined as exploratory and documentary research, in which it was highlighted that, despite public administration, through its stormwater management standards and regulations, proposing the use of several of these techniques as part of urban drainage, and although Nature-based Solutions are a valuable option, there is still a need for an integrated approach that takes into account the diversity of urban areas, the participation of various agents of society and the particularities of each device.