INTRODUCTION

Nanjing West Road, a prominent commercial street in Shanghai, has long been a hub of urban activity and cultural significance. Its recent upgrade incorporated Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to address pressing urban challenges while promoting sustainability.

The primary objectives of the project were to enhance urban ecological systems, improve the overall environmental quality, and create a harmonious blend of commerce, culture, and nature. By adopting NBS, the project aimed to mitigate urban heat island effects, enhance stormwater management, increase biodiversity, and provide multifunctional public spaces that cater to the needs of both residents and visitors.

METHOD AND INNOVATION

The Nanjing West Road upgrade project applied a range of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) techniques and innovative approaches to achieve its goals. Green infrastructure played a pivotal role in the redesign. Rainwater gardens covering an area of approximately 1500 square meters and vertical greenery with a total area of around 2000 square meters were strategically installed along the street. These installations not only absorbed rainwater to reduce flooding risks, with an annual absorption capacity of about 200,000 cubic meters, but also contributed to air purification and microclimate regulation.

Figure 1 shows the construction layers of a green space in Shanghai Nanjing West Road based on NBS. It depicts the progressive addition of elements from basic layout to a landscaped, functional area.

Figure 1. Perspective Diagram of Green Space Construction Layers (https://www.archiposition.com/items/20210309021632, 2021)

Additionally, permeable paving was used for pedestrian pathways, covering a significant portion of the walkways to facilitate rainwater infiltration and reduce surface runoff. This design choice was crucial in managing Shanghai’s frequent heavy rains while maintaining the road’s visual appeal.

The project also prioritized ecosystem services by introducing over 50 native plant species to the area. These plants were carefully selected to attract more than 10 species of birds and 20 species of insects, fostering local biodiversity and revitalizing the urban ecological system. Green spaces with integrated water features, covering an area of approximately 3000 square meters, were designed to cool the environment by 1℃, offering a more comfortable experience for pedestrians.

Figure 2 shows a dusk - lit pathway in Shanghai Nanjing West Road with blooming cherry trees. It exemplifies Nature - Based Solutions in urban space, blending nature and modern design.

Figure 2. NBS - Inspired Nighttime Green Corridor in Nanjing West Road, Shanghai (https://www.archiposition.com/items/20210309021632, 2021)

Technological innovations were integral to the project’s success. A smart rainwater management system was implemented, using sensors to monitor precipitation levels and optimize water usage. This system ensured efficient drainage and irrigation, reducing waste and enhancing overall performance. Furthermore, the project’s planning and execution were supported by active community engagement. Local residents and businesses participated in design workshops, contributing valuable insights to ensure the upgrades met the diverse needs of the area.

CHALLENGES & HOW TO OVERCOME

Despite its ambitious goals, the Nanjing West Road upgrade project faced several challenges during the planning and implementation stages.

One major challenge was balancing construction activities with the ongoing commercial operations of this bustling street. Businesses were concerned about potential disruptions to foot traffic and sales during the renovation process. To address this issue, the project adopted a phased construction approach. Work was carefully scheduled during non-peak hours, and major holidays were avoided to minimize the impact on commercial activities. This approach ensured that the street remained accessible to pedestrians and shoppers, thereby mitigating the negative effects on local businesses.

Another significant challenge was the high financial cost of implementing NBS features, such as permeable paving and smart management systems. To overcome this, the project employed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) funding model. This approach allowed private investors to share the financial burden with the government, while additional revenue was generated through leasing event spaces and advertising opportunities. The PPP model not only provided the necessary funds but also brought in expertise from the private sector, enhancing the project's overall efficiency and effectiveness.

Finally, the maintenance of the new green infrastructure posed a long-term challenge. Without proper care, the ecological benefits of the project could diminish over time. To ensure sustainability, the project developed a comprehensive maintenance plan that incorporated automated irrigation systems and community involvement. Local residents were encouraged to participate in the upkeep of green spaces, fostering a sense of ownership and long-term commitment. This community-driven approach not only ensured the longevity of the project but also enhanced public awareness and appreciation of NBS.

These strategies allowed the Nanjing West Road upgrade project to overcome significant obstacles and achieve its goals, setting a positive example for future urban NBS projects.

OUTCOME AND BENEFITS

The Nanjing West Road upgrade project delivered significant environmental, economic, and social benefits, with several quantifiable outcomes.

Environmentally, the project successfully reduced flood risk by enhancing stormwater absorption. The rainwater gardens and permeable paving installed along the street can absorb approximately 70% of the annual rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding by about 60%. The increased greenery and water features also helped lower average street temperatures by 2-3℃, mitigating the urban heat island effect and improving overall comfort levels.

Economically, the upgrades boosted the commercial attractiveness of Nanjing West Road. The improved environment encouraged increased foot traffic, with pedestrian counts rising by approximately 30%. This increase in visitors drove higher sales for local businesses, with many reporting sales increases of 20-30%. Additionally, the revitalization of the street attracted new businesses and investments, with lease prices in the area increasing by about 15%, further strengthening its economic vitality.

Socially, the project created multifunctional public spaces that encouraged recreation and cultural engagement. The integration of green spaces provided a respite from the urban hustle, with surveys showing that 80% of residents felt their quality of life had improved. The co-creation process, which involved local stakeholders, also fostered a stronger sense of community and collaboration, with community event participation rates increasing by about 40%.

These quantifiable benefits demonstrate the comprehensive positive impact of the Nanjing West Road upgrade project. Figure 3 shows a lively Nanjing West Road scene. Blooming cherry trees and people enjoying the space exemplify how NBS enriches urban life.

Figure 3. NBS - Facilitated Urban Vitality: Cherry - Blossom Lane in Nanjing West Road, Shanghai (https://www.archiposition.com/items/20210309021632, 2021

CONCLUSION

The upgrading of Nanjing West Road stands as a model of how Nature-Based Solutions can be effectively applied in urban settings. By addressing ecological, economic, and social challenges, the project has demonstrated the potential of NBS to create vibrant, sustainable urban environments. Looking ahead, it will be important to focus on refining maintenance strategies and expanding community participation to ensure the long-term success and replicability of such initiatives in other cities.

REFERENCES

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ABOUT AUTHOR

Wen Jinpei. He is a Master’s student in Rail and Urban Transport at TUM Asia, specializing in logistics and transportation modelling. Holding a Civil Engineering bachelor’s degree, he has secured national competition awards in surveying/mapping and graphics, along with civil engineering patents.

Sun Beibei. She is a Master’s student in Railway Transportation and Logistics at TUM Asia, with a strong academic background in urban mobility, traffic flow simulation, and transportation systems analysis. She graduated from the elite “Zhan Tianyou Class” in Civil Engineering and has received honors including the DAAD Winter Scholarship and the Zhan Tianyou Scholarship.

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