Using Nature-Based Solutions to Tackle Flooding

Recent floods in eastern Australia have left devastation in their wake, prompting both personal and professional soul-searching about how to prepare for such disasters in the future. The tragic events have highlighted the potential of nature-based solutions for managing floods and building long-term resilience.

The Human Impact of Flooding

For many people in Lismore, the floods were nothing short of catastrophic. Residents lost their homes, their possessions, and in some cases, their livelihoods. Dr Caroline Sullivan, who leads a flood research centre and lives nearby, described the emotional toll on her community. “An awful lot of my friends lost every single thing they have in the world,” she said.

Now, the town faces difficult decisions. Should residents stay and rebuild or relocate altogether? This dilemma is forcing communities to rethink how towns are designed and how to adapt to a future where floods are likely to be more commonplace.

Learning to Work With Nature

Instead of fighting against nature, many now believe the best solutions come from working with it. Dr Sullivan points to tactics used in the Netherlands, a country long-practised in managing water in a densely populated, low-lying landscape.

One Dutch initiative, called “Room for the River,” involves creating more space for rivers to flow naturally, even during periods of heavy rain. This includes buying back farmland and returning it to flood plains. Rather than forcing rivers into rigid channels, this approach acknowledges their dynamic behaviour and reduces flood risks.

Expanding the Approach

The Netherlands sets an inspiring example, but there’s even more that can be done to harness natural elements for flood management. Restoring wetlands, planting trees to reduce runoff, and allowing flood-absorbing landscapes to thrive are just a few ways we can use nature to lessen disasters.

These methods do more than protect against floods. They also promote biodiversity, improve air quality, and create green spaces for people to enjoy—a win-win for communities and the planet.

Thinking Beyond the Immediate

Floods are not just a one-off event but a recurring issue in many parts of the world. Building resilience isn’t just about repairing damage after disasters—it’s about preparing for the next one. This means involving communities not just in recovery but in redesigning towns to withstand future challenges.

Dr Sullivan emphasises the importance of collaboration. Decisions about whether to move higher-risk populations or introduce new designs must involve the entire community to ensure solutions meet their needs.

A Call for Action

The devastation caused by floods in Australia and lessons learned from the Netherlands underline the need to rethink how we approach flood management. Nature-based solutions aren’t just a quick fix—they pave the way for long-term resilience.

By working with, rather than against, natural processes, we can minimise damage, protect lives, and create stronger, more sustainable communities. It’s time to start prioritising these methods in flood-prone areas. Not only will they safeguard the present, but they’ll help secure a safer and greener future for generations to come.