Nature-based Solutions for Landslide Risk Reduction in Informal Settlements of Salvador da Bahia, Brazil

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk reduction (DRR) aim to take advantage of the benefits that nature can provide to cope with potential adverse impacts. This study identifies and evaluates NbS for landslide risk reduction in the informal settlements of Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, comparing them with conventional engineering measures. The research is based on a qualitative, participatory methodology, triangulating data from a literature review, 25 semi-structured expert interviews, and participatory workshops with 45 residents in two communities. The results show that experts consider NbS to be just as effective as many conventional measures. Key findings show that reforestation is considered highly effective for long-term slope stability, while vetiver grass is a highly-rated, low-cost immediate solution. Furthermore, NbS are considered significantly more cost-effective, with some options being up to five times cheaper than engineered alternatives, while also delivering substantial ecological and social co-benefits. The study concludes that although there is strong potential for NbS, successful implementation is contingent on overcoming social barriers through greater community awareness and participation.