Working with – rather than against – nature to ‘solve’ hazards created by climate change is a very appealing idea. Measures such as headwater woodland and peatland restoration, beaver reintroduction, leaky dams, urban greening, and salt marshes have all been used in the UK.
But do these projects really work?
Are they a cost-effective alternative, complementary to, or over-sold alternative to conventional hard engineering?
This talk goes beyond the rhetoric to examine scientific and economic data about the effectiveness of nature based solutions in defending communities from floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Given the pace and severity of climate change impacts, we want to be sure that our responses are evidence-based, so people, homes, and businesses are better prepared for the next extreme weather event when it comes.
Bio
Rob Wilby is a Professor of Hydroclimatic Modelling in the Department of Geography and Environment at Loughborough University. His main research interests are about interactions between climate and hydrology as these can give us too much, too little, or too dirty water.
His career has spanned time at Severn Trent Water, the Environment Agency, the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder Colorado, and various universities (Derby, Kings College London, Lancaster, and Loughborough).
Since completing his PhD in 1991, he has been involved in numerous consultancy projects in over 40 countries worldwide. His forthcoming book aims to gather these varied researcher-practitioner experiences in: “The Climate Adaptation Guide“.
Standard Stuff
Talks are usually on the 4th Wednesday of every month, at 7:00 for 7:30, at The Winchester Club in Winchester. Please take a look at the FAQs for more info.
Admission is £5 which also gives you an entry in the book raffle. We take cash and major cards (cards preferred).
The event is in two parts – the talk and then a Q&A after the interval. We encourage you to support the venue by indulging in the available drinks before and during the event.
You are also welcome to join us for a drink in the bar after the event.