The application of a data framework to assess the contribution of nature-based solutions to urban metabolism in informal settlements of Kumasi, Ghana

Nalumu, Dorothy;et.al.
(2025) The application of a data framework to assess the contribution of nature-based solutions to urban metabolism in informal settlem — Vol. 5, n° Issue 5, p. 34 (2025)

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Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) play a vital role in enhancing urban metabolism in African informal settlements by delivering social and ecological benefits at the household level. Despite the majority of urban populations in African cities living in informal settlements, there is limited data on how they access basic services. While NBS are known to support provisioning, regulatory, and socio-cultural benefits, existing data often generalise their impact without considering differences across settlement types. NBS types are in most cases generalised in description due to lack of data on their unique social-ecological systems. This study uses a socialecological data framework, informed by NBS and urban metabolism literature, to analyse NBS contributions to resource flows in three informal settlement typologies in Kumasi, Ghana. 362 household heads were interviewed, supported by 3 focus group discussions, and field observations. The findings reveal distinct social-ecological challenges and NBS contributions to urban metabolism across settlements. For example, flood exposure was highest in Ayigya Zongo (86.1%), moderate in Dagombaline (63.6%), and lowest in Dakodwom (39.0%), while soil erosion affected over 85% of households across all sites. Focus groups identified a need for improved rainwater harvesting techniques across settlements. Key ecosystems contributing to urban metabolism included grasslands (Ayigya Zongo), wetlands and medicinal plants (Dagombaline), and vegetation cover (Dakodwom). While food gardens are preferred for local food security, the lack of green infrastructure, especially community gardens, limits broader metabolic functions. Based on the findings, it is critical to integrate NBS into urban planning to solve flooding and poor infrastructure, refine frameworks through research, and empower local green solutions.
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Nalumu, D., & et al. (2025). The application of a data framework to assess the contribution of nature-based solutions to urban metabolism in informal settlements of Kumasi, Ghana. The application of a data framework to assess the contribution of nature-based solutions to urban metabolism in informal settlem, 5(Issue 5), 34. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43545-025-01234-2 (Original work published 2025)