The concept of sponge city as a nature-based solution for urban resilience: Insights from stakeholders in Karachi, Pakistan

The vulnerability of growing cities to climatic challenges has led to substantial degradation of ecosystem services resulting in increased flooding and reduced green spaces. Sponge City (SC) concept has been promoted currently, as part of the wider scope of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) as sustainable measure that can be adopted to build resilient cities. However, Pakistan is still far behind in adapting such new practices. Its major cities like Karachi suffer from urban flooding and poor landscape management producing unhealthy urban environments. This study examines the familiarity and willingness of the experts related to architecture, urban planning and environmental development in adapting the concept of SC and the existing practical limitation perceived by these experts in Karachi for SC implementation. It employed a structured questionnaire survey administered to stakeholder groups to ascertain the status of knowledge amongst them related to NBS and SC. The research findings revealed that more than 50 % of experts are familiar with the concept of NBS and are willing to take part in implementing the SC initiatives in Karachi. At the same time, a significant majority of experts (74 %) are of the view that the absence of open and green spaces has a negative impact on quality of life in Karachi. However, most experts (72 %) consider the lack of government support as one of the major hinderances, while others consider high maintenance costs, shortage of skilled individuals and technology as barriers in adapting and implementing the SC concept in Karachi. This research subsequently identifies what could persuade experts to innovate SC concept within their practices. It emphasizes the urgent need for stakeholders and experts to collaborate with policy makers, advocating for a shift in mindset among both educated professionals to uninformed residents to drive meaningful change in the society. • We studied local experts' responses on nature-based solutions. • We structured a questionnaire survey to obtain necessary information from expert participants. • 57 % were aware and 50 % of participants were willing to contribute to the sponge city initiatives. • Experts are responsible for addressing urgent calls for action on environmental challenges.