The National Secretary General of the Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE), Dr. Mudasiru Bola, has said that adopting integrated green infrastructure will help mitigate climate risks and improve the quality of life globally.

He also noted that a Synergistic Approach to Urban Resilience and Sustainability has enormous benefits for the ecosystem.

Speaking at the recent Global Engineering Conference (GECO) 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, Dr. Mudasiru presented a comprehensive framework for optimising urban resilience and sustainability through integrated green infrastructure, adaptive design, and climate-resilient planning.

He pointed out that synergistic integration empowers the urban ecosystem to become more resilient, adaptable, and self-sustaining, ultimately ensuring a healthier and more sustainable urban future.

Dr. Mudasiru’s presentation stressed the imperative of sustainable urban design, exploring the synergistic integration of Green Infrastructure (GI)—urban parks, green roofs, rain gardens, urban forestry programs, and wetlands restoration—to mitigate urban heat islands and environmental degradation.

He said, “Adaptive Building Design, climate-responsive architecture, modular and flexible design, resilient materials, and smart growth strategies enhance resilience and adaptability.

“Climate-Resilient Planning: Climate risk assessments, vulnerability mapping, urban heat island mitigation, flood-resilient design, and community engagement also minimise climate-related risks.”

The expert noted that the key takeaways from the presentation are anchored on innovative solutions for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 9, 11, 13).

He added, “Enhanced infrastructure resilience through integrated GI and adaptive design and reduced environmental footprint via regenerative design and circular economy principles.

“Other areas are urban heat island reduction strategies, Adaptive Building Design for climate resilience, resilient transportation networks, and inclusive urban planning.”

According to him, the implementation strategies embody collaborative governance and stakeholder engagement, as well as integrated urban planning and policy frameworks.

He said, “Green infrastructure financing mechanisms, community-led design and planning initiatives, and research and development of innovative solutions…”

He cited Singapore’s Green Infrastructure Plan, Rotterdam’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, and Copenhagen’s Sustainable Urban Development as examples.

Dr. Mudasiru stressed the importance of embracing regenerative designs and conducting climate vulnerability assessments to develop targeted strategies for enhancing resilience, reducing risks, and achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

He said, “By adopting an integrated approach to urban resilience and sustainability, cities can mitigate climate risks, improve quality of life, and create thriving, eco-friendly environments for future generations.”