Nature‑based solutions should be integrated into housing policies and urban planning projects, said Aghakarim Samadzade, First Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, during a session on “Can the Climate‑Housing Nexus Expand Climate‑Resilient Housing Without Deepening Inequality or Displacement?” held within WUF13, Report informs.
According to him, nature is currently under increasing pressure: “Approximately 58% of the world’s population lives in cities, and urban areas are increasingly exposed to heatwaves, floods, water scarcity, and other climate‑related risks. At the same time, nature itself is under growing pressure. That is precisely why nature‑based solutions must be an integral part of housing policies and urban planning projects.”
Samadzade noted that a clear balance must be maintained between urban development and nature conservation. “In my opinion, nature‑based solutions should be incorporated into every stage of urban planning. Azerbaijan is already applying this approach in its housing and urban development policies. The Socio‑Economic Development Strategy for 2022–2026 and its extension until 2030 identify ‘clean environment and green growth’ as national priorities. Within the framework of the Great Return Programme, Azerbaijan is developing green energy zones, ‘smart city’ and ‘smart village’ concepts, as well as ecosystem restoration in the liberated territories.”
He also highlighted that Azerbaijan and Turkey have jointly established a seedling centre in Jabrayil, which will support afforestation activities in Karabakh and East Zangazur. “Azerbaijan recently submitted its NDC 3.0 document and is currently preparing its Long‑Term Low‑Emission Development Strategy. To achieve these goals, nature‑based solutions and ecosystem restoration will be crucial. That is why this year’s World Environment Day, hosted by Azerbaijan, will be held under the slogan: ‘Inspired by Nature. For the climate. For our future.’”