From Evidence to Investment: The systemic challenges facing nature-based infrastructure

This webinar launches a new report from the Nature-Based Infrastructure Global Resource Centre synthesizing evidence from 45 assessments across 29 countries, showing that nature-based infrastructure (NBI) consistently delivers strong financial returns alongside broader social and environmental benefits.

In the face of accelerating climate change, biodiversity loss, and growing infrastructure needs, NBI offers a transformative alternative to conventional grey infrastructure.

Yet two barriers continue to hold back investment in NBI. Conventional infrastructure appraisal and procurement systems are built to capture upfront costs, not the long-term, harder-to-measure value NBI delivers. And even where that value is recognized, few projects are structured to give investors and development banks the confidence to act.

The webinar will explore what it will take to close this gap and showcase concrete examples of how the evidence is shaping decisions on the ground. It brings together policy-makers, funders, and practitioners working on infrastructure planning and climate finance, with the aim of turning this evidence base into practical next steps for scaling investment in NBI.

Agenda

Opening remarks – Chizuru Aoki, Manager, Conventions and Funds Division, Global Environment Facility

Making the Case for NBI: 45 Assessments Across 29 Countries – Henri Contor, author of the report and PhD researcher, KU Leuven; formerly the International Institute for Sustainable Development

Panel discussion followed by Q&A

Speakers

• Rita Nishimwe – Water and environmental engineer specializing in water, sanitation, hygien, and climate resilience; Rwanda Young Water Professional
• Savina Carluccio – Executive Director, International Coalition for Sustainable Infrastructure
• Andrew McDonald – Principal Professional Officer: Catchment and Stormwater Management at the City of Cape Town

The webinar is moderated by Liesbeth Casier, coordinator at the NBI Global Resource Centre.