Mix of hard and soft approaches needed for NFM says WWF
Flood risk managers should combine multiple methods of hard and soft, structural and non-structural approaches when applying the integrated flood management, a WWF guide to natural flood risk management has recommended.
The World Wildlife Fund published its 'Flood Green Guide' to support the use of natural flood management methods. The guide provides guidance and tools to lead flood managers through analysis, method selection and decision making at multiple stages of a typical flood risk management project cycle.
Designed for use by local governmenta, community groups and NGOs, the guide organises flood management methods into two categories: structural and non-structural. Structural methods include engineered methods, such as dams, as well as natural methods such as wetland protection, upper watershed restoration or rain gardens. Non-structural measures include laws, regulations, social institutions, organisations or individual behaviour.
The guide recommends the use of a combination of multiple methods of hard and soft, structural and non-structural approaches that complement one another and enhance the efficacy of flood risk management methods.
The guide also recommends managers first apply IFM non-structural methods and then if needed include structural methods as part of an integrated approach.
Download the Flood Green Guide here.
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