Zahra Kalantari, Director of the WaterCentre at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, explores how nature-based solutions can transform urban spaces into more resilient, sustainable, and livable environments.

She highlights wetlands as a powerful example - they can slow and retain water, trap sediments, improve water quality, boost biodiversity, and even provide recreational spaces. With floods and extreme weather increasing due to climate change and human activity, these solutions protect critical infrastructure while reducing economic and social damages.

Zahra combines flood risk assessment, scientific analysis, and practical urban planning to implement solutions that work in the real world. By embracing interventions inspired by nature, cities can adapt to climate impacts, enhance resilience, and create healthier spaces for communities.

This talk is essential for urban planners, water managers, climate scientists, and policymakers aiming to build sustainable, future-ready cities.