SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) organized a regional webinar on Nature-based Solutions (NbS). The event brought together researcher, academicians, experts, policymakers and students from SAARC member states and other region to discuss sustainable approaches for addressing climate change, environmental degradation and disaster risks mitigation in South Asia. The program was moderated by Dr. Raza Ullah Khan, Senior Program Specialist (NRM), SAC.
In his opening remarks Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid, Director, SAC stressed the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation to promote sustainable natural resource management. He said Nature-based Solutions could play a crucial role in enhancing climate resilience, ensuring food and nutrition security and protecting ecosystems throughout the SAARC region.
Delivering the presentation, Dr. Rishiraj Dutta, Program Manager (Nature-based Solutions) Asian Disaster Preparedness Center, Thailand, highlighted the importance of integrating NbS into national development strategies added that these approaches can reduce disaster vulnerability while creating significant environmental and social benefits. Sharing success stories from across the Asia, he called for stronger policy support and greater community engagement to ensure effective implementation. “Nature-based Solutions are no longer optional but essential for building climate resilience and protecting livelihoods across South Asia,” he said.
In another presentation Dr. Fabio Masi, Technical Director IRIDRA and Vice President Global Wetland Tech. Association, Italy, showcased sustainable and low-cost methods for wastewater treatment and water recycling through Nature-based Solutions. He explained how circular economy strategies and treatment wetlands could help recycle water, recover nutrients and support climate-resilient communities.
The webinar concluded with an interactive discussion session where participants exchanged views on the practical application of NbS in agriculture and environmental management. In his closing remarks, Tanvir Ahmad Torophder appreciated the initiative of SAC and reaffirmed the commitment of the SAARC Secretariat to promoting regional collaboration for sustainable and climate-resilient development.
