The concept of "nature-positive" infrastructure represents a paradigm shift in the construction industry. Rather than simply aiming to "do no harm" or mitigate the most egregious environmental damages, a nature-positive approach seeks to ensure that infrastructure projects contribute to the restoration and enhancement of ecosystems. In the context of transport, this could involve designing road networks that preserve migratory corridors, utilizing nature-based solutions like restored wetlands to manage drainage and prevent erosion, or selecting port locations that minimize the disruption of sensitive marine habitats.
The IISD project is designed to provide the practical tools necessary to turn these principles into reality. A key output of the initiative will be a technical handbook tailored for procurement practitioners. This handbook will serve as a guide for government officials and project managers, offering clear methodologies on how to include biodiversity criteria in tender documents and how to evaluate bids based on their environmental performance. By providing these decision-makers with the technical language and frameworks they need, the project aims to lower the barriers to adopting sustainable practices.
In addition to the technical handbook, the project will produce a series of case studies. These real-world examples will highlight where nature-positive approaches have already been successfully implemented or where traditional procurement failed to protect vital ecosystems. These case studies are intended to demonstrate the feasibility and the value proposition of nature-positive infrastructure, showing that it is possible to build modern transport links while simultaneously protecting the environment.
Education and capacity building are also central components of the initiative. The IISD and its partners are developing an online training programme specifically designed for procurement practitioners. This program will help professionals in the field understand the complexities of biodiversity integration and equip them with the skills to manage projects that meet both transport needs and environmental standards. By fostering a global community of practice, the project seeks to ensure that the knowledge generated is shared across borders and applied in diverse geographical contexts.
The urgency of this work is underscored by the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. Infrastructure is a permanent fixture on the landscape; a road built today will influence the local environment for decades. If that road is designed without regard for wildlife movement, it can permanently fragment a habitat, leading to the isolation of species and a reduction in genetic diversity. However, if the procurement process requires the inclusion of wildlife crossings or the preservation of natural buffers, that same road can be part of a landscape that remains ecologically functional.
