SCMP: As the world struggles to meet the Paris targets, it is time to adopt radical realism by accepting and preparing for global warming that far exceeds the 1.5 degree Celsius threshold.
Current projections indicate a likely temperature rise of 3.1 degrees Celsius by 2100, with the 1.5 degree Celsius limit surpassed as early as 2029.
But with economies faltering and budgets tightening, the question becomes: how can governments make public spending go further while building long-term resilience?
One answer lies in nature-based solutions: actions that work with nature to restore ecosystems and reduce climate risks. From cooling urban areas with green infrastructure to using traditional gei wai (intertidal shrimp ponds) as flood buffers, nature-based solutions protect biodiversity, enhance liveability and are cost effective.
Hong Kong’s Northern Metropolis is a 30,000-hectare development project in an area that is home to unique ecosystems yet highly exposed to climate risks, thus presenting a vital opportunity. By integrated nature-based solutions early on, the Northern Metropolis could become the model of climate-smart, biodiversity-sensitive development where prosperity and ecological protection go hand in hand.
Radical realism demands a new planning paradigm, one that recognises nature-based solutions as essential adjustments to cities.
A coordinated effort is required across sectors, nature-based solution specialists, private developers, financial strategists, philanthropies, NGOs and government agencies.
However, scaling up nature-based solutions requires funding. To unlock investment, the government could foster an enabling environment through policy signals, ecosystem valuation and smart financing mechanisms. Blended finance models can de-risk investment and attract private capital.
In public-private-philanthropic partnerships, a government provides strategic direction, philanthropy funds early pilots and the private sector scales up proven solutions, with public agencies ensuring long-term stewardship.
If we embed nature into our city, not as an afterthought but as a foundation, we can design a future that is safer, cooler, more liveable and more resilient.
Originally published on SCMP on 29 Jun 2025. Written by Rebecca Süss.
