Belo Horizonte's Green-Blue Network: A mapping methodology to prioritize nature-based solutions

Urbanization is one of the most aggressive drivers of change affecting the natural environment from the atmosphere to soil and water. Therefore, the restoration of natural areas for the promotion of ecosystem services and the increase in biodiversity are critically important actions for local governments to focus on. The concept of nature-based solutions provides the foundation for the reintegration of natural cycles into urban design and planning, aiming to improve food security, the easy delivery of ecosystem services and thereby, quality of life for residents.

The mapping methodology presented in this case study consolidates the application of the strategic elements contained in the study of the Green-Blue Network in the Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte (RMBH).