Speaker
Description
Iwuchukwu, J.
Imo State Polytechnic Omuma Imo State Nigeria
phd16294@gmail.com
Track: Research, Innovation and Knowledge Ecosystems
Climate change poses significant environmental challenges in Imo State, Nigeria, including increased flooding, soil erosion, land degradation, biodiversity loss, and declining agricultural productivity. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) have emerged as sustainable approaches for climate adaptation and mitigation through the protection, restoration, and management of ecosystems. This study assesses the spatial distribution, effectiveness, and potential of Nature-Based Solutions in Imo State using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing techniques. Multi-temporal satellite imagery, digital elevation models, land use/land cover datasets, climate records, and field observations are integrated to identify climate-vulnerable areas and existing ecosystem assets. Spatial analyses involving land-use change detection, vegetation health assessment using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), erosion susceptibility mapping, flood-risk analysis, and ecosystem service evaluation are employed to determine areas suitable for NbS interventions. The assessment focuses on key NbS strategies including forest conservation, afforestation, watershed restoration, wetland protection, agroforestry, and urban green infrastructure. Previous studies indicate substantial land-use changes, vegetation loss, watershed degradation, and increasing erosion risks across parts of Imo State, highlighting the urgent need for ecosystem-based adaptation measures. The study is expected to generate spatially explicit maps identifying priority areas for NbS implementation and climate resilience planning. Findings will provide evidence-based support for policymakers, environmental managers, and development agencies in integrating geospatial technologies into climate adaptation strategies. The research contributes to sustainable environmental management by demonstrating how Nature-Based Solutions can simultaneously enhance ecosystem resilience, reduce climate risks, improve biodiversity conservation, and support sustainable livelihoods in Imo State.
Keywords: Nature-Based Solutions, Climate Change Adaptation, GIS, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Assessment, Ecosystem Restoration, Climate Resilience, Imo State, Nigeria.