Identifying Priority Areas for Nature-based Solutions to Mitigate Urban Flood Risk Using Blue-Green Infrastructure in Parepare City, Indonesia
Syazwi Quthbi Al Azizi

School of Architecture, Planning and Policy Development, Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Bandung, Indonesia

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and climate change have amplified urban flood risks, especially in medium-sized coastal cities of developing countries. Parepare City, Indonesia, exemplifies this challenge due to its high flood hazard levels, multidimensional vulnerability-including physical, social, and economic aspects-and limited adaptive capacity. This study aims to identify priority areas for implementing nature-based solutions (NbS) by integrating flood risk mapping with spatial analysis of existing urban space. Flood risk was assessed through a spatial multi-criteria analysis (SMCA) that combined indicators of hazard, vulnerability, and capacity. The results show that high-risk zones are mainly concentrated along river corridors and low-lying areas prone to high flood discharge and significant socio-economic vulnerability. Furthermore, the study analyzes the distribution and accessibility of blue-green spaces relative to built-up areas and population density to guide NbS planning. Priority areas are classified into three groups based on flood risk levels and the availability of blue-green infrastructure. Proposed interventions include rainwater harvesting, permeable pavements, urban forest enhancement, and retention ponds. The findings highlight the necessity of integrating detailed flood risk assessments with spatial analysis of blue-green infrastructure to enhance flood resilience in medium-sized coastal cities.

Keywords: urban flood risk- nature-based solutions- blue-green infrastructure- spatial multi-criteria analysis- Parepare- Indonesia

Topic: Topic B: Applications of Remote Sensing