The paper, produced through the UKRI-funded RECLAIM Network Plus, calls for nature to be fully embedded in planning and design if cities are to be climate-resilient, liveable and healthy.
It draws on global case studies – including Singapore’s lush green corridors, Cardiff’s mass tree planting and Copenhagen’s climate-proofed neighbourhoods – to show how urban greening can cut pollution, lower flood risk and boost biodiversity.
Lead author Professor Prashant Kumar, Director of Surrey’s Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCARE), said: “Nature-based infrastructure is not just a ‘nice-to-have’ aesthetic enhancement but a fundamental component of sustainable urban development.
“Urban greening can be a cost-effective and practical solution to some of our most pressing challenges – from climate change and biodiversity loss to growing health inequalities.”
But the report also warns of ‘green gentrification’ – where new green developments risk pricing out local communities.
It stresses the importance of inclusive design, community engagement and equitable access to nature.
To deliver nature-based infrastructure at scale, the authors call for clear green space targets, long-term funding, incentives for developers and joined-up policymaking across climate, health and housing.
