Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review

Suresh Aluvihara; Sabita Soren; Ferial Pestano-Gupta; Ainullah Merzazadah

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17

Review Article |

| Peer-Reviewed

Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review

Suresh Aluvihara^*

, Sabita Soren

, Ferial Pestano-Gupta

, Ainullah Merzazadah

Published in American Journal of Environmental Protection (Volume 14, Issue 5)

Received: 29 August 2025 Accepted: 28 September 2025 Published: 27 October 2025

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Abstract

As global urbanization accelerates, cities are increasingly confronted with multifaceted challenges, including climate change impacts, biodiversity loss, and the provision of essential ecosystem services. Traditional grey infrastructure, while foundational, often proves insufficient in addressing these complex issues. This research posits that strategically integrated green and blue elements - encompassing parks, urban forests, wetlands, permeable pavements, and sustainable drainage systems - offer a synergistic approach to infrastructure planning. These natural and semi-natural systems are not merely aesthetic additions but critical components for enhancing the functional capacity of urban environments. They play a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air and water quality, managing storm water runoff, and fostering biodiversity, thereby creating healthier and more livable urban ecosystems. Furthermore, the integration of these natural assets contributes to a more adaptable and robust urban fabric, capable of withstanding and recovering from environmental shocks and stresses. The paper explores the theoretical underpinnings and empirical evidence supporting the deployment of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) within urban planning frameworks, highlighting their capacity to deliver multiple co-benefits that transcend singular engineering solutions. By moving beyond a purely technocentric approach, this work advocates for a paradigm shift towards a more holistic and integrated infrastructure development model that recognizes the intrinsic value and functional performance of natural systems. Blue infrastructure, such as restored wetlands and bioswales, further augments storm water management capabilities, filtering pollutants and recharging groundwater aquifers. Beyond hydrological benefits, green infrastructure contributes to social resilience by providing spaces for recreation, community engagement, and mental well-being, fostering social cohesion and a sense of place. Economically, investments in green and blue infrastructure can yield significant returns through reduced costs associated with flood damage, water treatment, and healthcare, while also stimulating local economies through green job creation and increased property values.

Published in	American Journal of Environmental Protection (Volume 14, Issue 5)
DOI	10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17
Page(s)	237-246
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Green Infrastructure, Blue Infrastructure, Urban Resilience, Infrastructure Development, Climate Change Adaptation, Nature-Based Solutions, Urban Planning, Sustainable Cities, Urban Water Management, Wetlands

1. Introduction

The rapid growth of urban populations globally has placed immense pressure on existing infrastructure systems and exacerbated the vulnerability of cities to climate change impacts. Traditional gray infrastructure, characterized by hard engineering solutions such as concrete dams, paved roads, and underground drainage systems, often struggles to cope with increasing demands and can contribute to environmental degradation. Climate change, in particular, presents a complex set of challenges, including more frequent and intense heat waves, droughts, floods, and extreme weather events, which can overwhelm traditional infrastructure and disrupt essential services

[1-5]

In response to these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the potential of nature-based solutions, specifically green spaces and blue infrastructure (GBI), to enhance infrastructure performance, mitigate climate risks, and improve overall urban resilience. GBI encompasses a wide range of natural and semi-natural systems, including parks, urban forests, green roofs, green walls, wetlands, waterways, rain gardens, and permeable pavements. These systems provide a multitude of ecosystem services, such as storm-water management, temperature regulation, air purification, carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and recreational opportunities

[3-9]

This review aims to provide an advanced examination of the role of GBI in infrastructure development and urban resilience. It goes beyond a simple overview of benefits and explores the complex interplay between GBI, traditional infrastructure, and urban planning strategies. The review synthesizes existing research, identifies knowledge gaps, and proposes future research directions to advance the integration of GBI into urban environments. It specifically investigates the following key areas.

The multifaceted benefits of GBI for infrastructure performance and urban resilience includes examining how GBI can improve the efficiency and longevity of traditional infrastructure, mitigate climate risks, and enhance the quality of life for urban residents

[8-12]

The integration of GBI into various infrastructure sectors explores the specific applications of GBI in transportation, energy, water management, and built environment sectors, highlighting innovative approaches and best practices.

The challenges and opportunities associated with implementing GBI in urban environments. This includes addressing issues related to land availability, funding mechanisms, stakeholder engagement, policy frameworks, and technical expertise.

The role of innovative technologies and data analysis in optimizing the performance of GBI explores the use of remote sensing, GIS, and sensor technologies to monitor, model, and manage GBI systems more effectively.

The importance of community engagement, education, and participatory planning in promoting the adoption and maintenance of GBI emphasizes the need for inclusive and equitable approaches to GBI implementation that prioritize the needs of vulnerable communities.

2. The Multifaceted Benefits of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure

GBI provides a multitude of ecosystem services that contribute to infrastructure performance and urban resilience. These benefits can be broadly categorized as follows.

2.1. Storm-water Management and Flood Mitigation

GBI plays a crucial role in managing storm-water runoff, reducing flood risks, and improving water quality. Traditional gray infrastructure, such as concrete drainage systems, is often designed to quickly convey storm-water away from urban areas, which can exacerbate downstream flooding and pollute waterways. GBI, on the other hand, mimics natural hydrological processes by intercepting rainfall, increasing infiltration, and slowing down runoff. Examples of GBI for storm-water management include the followings

[10-14]

2.1.1. Green Roofs

These vegetated rooftops can absorb a significant portion of rainfall, reducing the volume of runoff and delaying its release into the drainage system

[15, 16]

A study found that installing green roofs covering 25-100% of the rooftop area at the watershed scale resulted in gradually substantial decreases in runoff volumes and peaks, demonstrating noteworthy nonlinear advantages at larger geographical scales

[11]

. Simulations employing a green roof network in Wellington, New Zealand, demonstrated a roughly three-fold reduction in urban flood-prone zones, demonstrating the cumulative effect of multi-rooftop deployment

[27]

2.1.2. Rain Gardens

Depressed areas planted with native vegetation that capture and infiltrate storm-water runoff from impervious surfaces

[10]

Permeable pavements allow storm-water to infiltrate into the ground, reducing runoff and replenishing groundwater supplies

[7]

According to an IWA multidisciplinary analysis, engineered wetlands may filter up to 99 percent of suspended particles, 88 percent nitrate, and 89 percent phosphorus while reducing peak flood and runoff by 91 to 99 percent when paired with green space and permeable pavement

[29]

2.1.3. Constructed Wetlands

Artificial wetlands designed to treat storm-water runoff by removing pollutants through natural processes, such as filtration, sedimentation, and nutrient uptake

[23]

Studies have shown that GBI can significantly reduce storm-water runoff volume and peak flow rates, thereby reducing the risk of urban flooding

[6]

. In addition, GBI can improve water quality by removing pollutants from storm water runoff, such as sediment, nutrients, and heavy metals

[9]

2.2. Temperature Regulation and Urban Heat Island Mitigation

Urban areas tend to be significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect, caused by the absorption of solar radiation by impervious surfaces and the release of heat from buildings and vehicles. GBI can help mitigate the UHI effect by providing shade and evapotranspiration, which cools the surrounding air.

BGI zones had considerably lower surface temperatures than non-BGI areas, according to a study conducted in the Indian city of Bhubaneswar. In particular, the average Land Surface Temperature (LST) in built-up areas was 34.12°C, whereas the LST in blue-green spaces was 31.97°C. In BGI zones, the maximum LST was over 2.3°C lower, demonstrating the function of plant and water in thermal moderation. This temperature difference is visually represented in Figure 1, which compares the mean surface temperatures of blue-green and non-blue-green spaces derived from satellite-based estimates

[15, 20]

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 1. Mean surface temperature comparison between blue-green and non-blue-green urban zones in Bhubaneswar.

2.2.1. Urban Forests

Trees provide shade, reducing the amount of solar radiation absorbed by buildings and pavements. They also release water vapor through transpiration, which cools the air

[35]

2.2.2. Green Walls

Vertical vegetated surfaces make some cool buildings by providing shade and evapotranspiration

[40]

Although the search results did not specify the precise benefits of urban cooling, built-environment studies have shown that the addition of green walls and roofs lowers particulate matter and lessens the effects of heat islands

[27]

By promoting evaporative cooling, providing shade, and modifying airflow, blue-green infrastructure is essential for reducing urban heat islands. BGI helps lessen heat stress, particularly during summer peaks, by combining vegetation and water elements to produce cooler microclimates within urban surroundings

[30]

2.2.3. Parks and Green Spaces

Large green areas can create cooler micro-climates, providing refuge from the heat for urban residents

[8]

Research has demonstrated that GBI can significantly reduce air temperatures in urban areas, particularly during heat waves

[39]

. This can reduce energy demand for cooling, improve air quality, and protect vulnerable populations from heat-related illnesses.

2.3. Air Quality Improvement

Air pollution is a major concern in urban areas, contributing to respiratory illnesses and other health problems. GBI can help improve air quality by absorbing pollutants, such as particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide.

Urban greening has a number of benefits for enhancing air quality. As natural air cleaners, trees and other vegetation effectively absorb airborne contaminants like particulate matter

[1]

2.3.1. Trees

Trees can filter particulate matter from the air and absorb gaseous pollutants through their leaves

[35, 36]

2.3.2. Green Roofs and Green Walls

Vegetation can trap particulate matter and absorb gaseous pollutants, improving air quality in the immediate vicinity. Studies have shown that GBI can significantly reduce air pollution levels in urban areas, particularly in areas with high traffic density

[12]

2.4. Carbon Sequestration

Climate change is driven by the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere. GBI can help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. High-yield sequestration species, such as Styphnolobiumjaponicum and Salix babylonica, were found by research, which also suggested community structures to optimize carbon uptake in constrained urban locations

[13]

2.4.1. Urban Forests

Trees store carbon in their biomass, reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

[34]

2.4.2. Wetlands

Wetlands can accumulate and store large amounts of carbon in their soils

[33]

The carbon sequestration potential of GBI varies depending on the type of vegetation, climate, and management practices. However, GBI can contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.

2.5. Biodiversity Conservation

Urban areas often have lower biodiversity than surrounding natural areas. GBI can provide habitat for wildlife, supporting biodiversity conservation in urban environments.

2.5.1. Parks and Green Spaces

Parks and green spaces can provide habitat for birds, insects, and other animals

[38]

2.5.2. Wetlands

Wetlands provide habitat for a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial species

[33]

As an example of habitat construction and biodiversity enrichment using BGI, constructed wetlands with a variety of flora have supported up to 73 bird species in an Italian wetland and 38 duck species in Spain

[18]

Through BGI design, eco-system restoration initiatives in Portland restored natural ecosystems by reintroducing native streams and species like salmon and beaver

[37]

2.5.3. Green Corridors

Connected networks of green spaces allow wildlife to move between different habitats

[4]

GBI can enhance biodiversity in urban areas by providing food, shelter, and breeding grounds for wildlife. This can improve the ecological health of urban ecosystems and enhance the quality of life for urban residents.

2.6. Social and Economic Benefits

GBI provides a range of social and economic benefits, including improved public health, increased property values, and enhanced recreational opportunities.

2.6.1. Improved Public Health

Access to green spaces has been linked to reduced stress levels, improved mental health, and increased physical activity

[26]

Green and blue spaces will be viewed as crucial infrastructure for lowering non-communicable diseases, according to global health experts, particularly in areas that are already urbanized

[18]

Nature's therapeutic significance is shown by clinical research showing quantifiable benefits for blood pressure, immunological function, mood, and cognitive functioning.

2.6.2. Increased Property Values

Properties located near green spaces tend to have higher values than properties located in areas without green spaces

[25]

2.6.3. Enhanced Recreational Opportunities

Parks, greenways, and waterways provide opportunities for recreation, such as walking, cycling, and boating

[17]

. GBI can improve the quality of life for urban residents by providing access to nature, enhancing recreational opportunities, and improving public health. In addition, GBI can contribute to economic development by increasing property values and attracting businesses and tourists.

3. Integration of GBI into Infrastructure Sectors

GBI can be integrated into various infrastructure sectors to enhance performance, reduce costs, and improve resilience. The following sections discuss the specific applications of GBI in transportation, energy, water management, and built environment sectors.

3.1. Transportation Infrastructure

GBI can be integrated into transportation infrastructure to manage storm-water runoff, reduce the UHI effect, and improve air quality. Examples of GBI in transportation infrastructure include the followings.

3.1.1. Green Streets

Streets designed with trees, permeable pavements, and rain gardens to manage storm-water runoff and reduce the UHI effect.

3.1.2. Vegetated Swales

Ditches planted with vegetation that filters storm-water runoff from roads and highways.

3.1.3. Green Roofs on Transportation Buildings

Green roofs on bus stations, train stations, and parking garages can reduce storm-water runoff, insulate buildings, and improve air quality

[32]

3.1.4. Urban Forestry Along Roadways

Trees planted along roadways can provide shade, reduce the UHI effect, and improve air quality

[2]

Integrating GBI into transportation infrastructure can provide multiple benefits, including reduced storm-water runoff, improved air quality, and enhanced aesthetic appeal.

3.2. Energy Infrastructure

GBI can be integrated into energy infrastructure to reduce energy demand, improve energy efficiency, and support renewable energy production. Examples of GBI in energy infrastructure include the followings infrastructures.

3.2.1. Green Roofs and Green Walls on Buildings

Green roofs and green walls can insulate buildings, reducing energy demand for heating and cooling

[16, 40]

3.2.2. Urban Forestry Near Buildings

Trees planted near buildings can provide shade, reducing the amount of solar radiation absorbed by buildings and lowering cooling costs

[2]

3.2.3. Bio-energy Production

Energy can be generated from biomass grown on urban green spaces, such as parks and vacant lots

[19]

3.2.4. Green Infrastructure for Microclimate Control Around Energy Facilities

Vegetation can be used to regulate temperature and humidity around solar panels and other energy facilities, improving their efficiency.

Integrating GBI into energy infrastructure can reduce energy demand, improve energy efficiency, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

3.3. Water Management Infrastructure

GBI is particularly well-suited for integration into water management infrastructure, providing cost-effective and sustainable solutions for storm-water management, wastewater treatment, and water supply augmentation. Examples of GBI in water management infrastructure include the following infrastructures.

Alday claims that by conserving water for later use, nature-based solutions like floodable parks can also assist cities in coping with drought. Rather of attempting to eradicate water, one of the planet's most valuable and dwindling resources.

3.3.1. Constructed Wetlands for Wastewater Treatment

Artificial wetlands can be used to treat wastewater from homes, businesses, and industries

[23]

3.3.2. Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater can be collected and stored for non-potable uses, such as irrigation and toilet flushing

[24]

3.3.3. Grey-water Reuse

Wastewater from showers, sinks, and washing machines can be treated and reused for non-potable purposes

[21]

3.3.4. Riparian Buffers

Vegetated areas along streams and rivers that filter pollutants from runoff provide habitat for aquatic species.

Integrating GBI into water management infrastructure can reduce water consumption, improve water quality, and enhance the resilience of water supply systems. This includes promoting the concept of "sponge cities" which utilizes GBI to absorb, store, and release water in a controlled manner, mitigating floods and droughts.

3.4. Built Environment

GBI can be integrated into the built environment to enhance building performance, improve air quality, and create more livable communities. Examples of GBI in the built environment include the followings.

3.4.1. Green Roofs and Green Walls on Buildings

Green roofs and green walls can insulate buildings, reduce storm-water runoff, and improve air quality

[16, 40]

The higher efficiency of green roofs in urban flood control was demonstrated by a hydrological model of the Aricanduva basin in São Paulo, which showed that replacing about 24% of conventional roofs with green roofs prevented canal overflow, whereas permeable paving required 40% coverage to achieve similar mitigation.

According to a study conducted at the watershed scale, installing green roofs covering 25-100% of the rooftop area resulted in gradually significant drops in runoff volumes and peaks, demonstrating noteworthy nonlinear advantages at larger spatial scales

[11]

3.4.2. Urban Parks and Green Spaces

Parks and green spaces provide opportunities for recreation, improve public health, and enhance property values

[8]

3.4.3. Street Trees

Trees planted along streets can provide shade, reduce the UHI effect, and improve air quality

[2]

3.4.4. Community Gardens

Gardens where residents can grow their own food, promoting community engagement and improving access to fresh produce.

Integrating GBI into the built environment can create more sustainable, resilient, and livable urban communities.

4. Challenges and Opportunities for Implementing GBI

While GBI offers significant benefits for infrastructure development and urban resilience, its implementation faces several challenges. These challenges include the following obstacles.

4.1. Land Availability and Cost

Urban land is often scarce and expensive, making it difficult to secure land for GBI projects. The cost of acquiring and developing land for GBI can also be a barrier to implementation.

4.2. Funding Mechanisms

Traditional funding mechanisms for infrastructure development often prioritize gray infrastructure over GBI. New funding mechanisms are needed to support GBI projects, such as grants, tax incentives, and public-private partnerships.

Due to financial limitations, many communities put short-term infrastructure requirements ahead of long-term green expenditures. GBI deployment is further hampered by a lack of access to creative financing options such as green bonds or public-private partnerships

[22]

4.3. Stakeholder Engagement

GBI projects often involve multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, community groups, and private landowners. Effective stakeholder engagement is essential to ensure that GBI projects are well-designed, supported by the community, and properly maintained.

4.4. Policy Frameworks

Existing policies and regulations may not adequately support GBI implementation. Policies are needed to promote GBI, such as storm-water management regulations, green building standards, and incentives for developers to incorporate GBI into their projects.

4.5. Technical Expertise

Designing, implementing, and maintaining GBI requires specialized technical expertise. There is a need for more training programs and educational resources to build capacity in GBI planning and management.

4.6. Maintenance and Monitoring

GBI requires ongoing maintenance to ensure that it functions properly and provides the intended benefits. Monitoring is also needed to track the performance of GBI and identify areas for improvement.

Although the lifecycle costs of GBI may be lowered it still necessitates technical expertise, adaptive management, and ongoing maintenance, particularly for systems like wetlands, rain gardens, and bio swales. One typical impediment is a lack of skilled workers

[28]

Despite these challenges, there are also significant opportunities for implementing GBI as mentioned in the below.

4.6.1. Increasing Awareness of the Benefits of GBI

Educating policymakers, developers, and the public about the benefits of GBI can help to increase support for its implementation.

4.6.2. Integrating GBI into Existing Infrastructure Projects

GBI can be incorporated into existing infrastructure projects, such as road construction and building renovations, at a relatively low cost.

4.6.3. Developing Innovative Financing Mechanisms

New financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and ecosystem service payments, can be used to fund GBI projects.

4.6.4. Promoting Community-based GBI Initiatives

Engaging communities in the planning, implementation, and maintenance of GBI can create a sense of ownership and ensure that GBI projects meet the needs of local residents.

4.6.5. Institutional and Governance Barriers

It often proves difficult to integrate GBI into current infrastructure systems due to fragmented institutional responsibilities. The departments of planning, water, health, and environment do not coordinate well, which causes delays in decision-making and execution

[31]

Table 1 presents common barriers to effective green and blue infrastructure (GBI) integration in urban planning, along with actionable mitigation strategies. Addressing these institutional, technical, financial, and social challenges is critical to ensuring long-term functionality and resilience of GBI systems in the face of urbanization and climate change

[15]

Table 1. Key challenges and mitigation strategies for green and blue infrastructure (GBI) implementation.

Challenge	Description	Mitigation Strategy
High Initial Costs	Upfront expenses for planning, materials, and installation.	Incentives, green financing (e.g., green bonds), public-private partnerships.
Land-Use Conflicts	Limited space in dense urban areas competes with GBI implementation.	Promote multifunctional designs, integrate GBI in urban planning policies.
Maintenance Demands	GBI elements require long-term care (e.g., vegetation, drainage upkeep).	Allocate maintenance funding, train local caretakers, adopt low-maintenance designs.
Technical Knowledge Gaps	Shortage of trained professionals in GBI design and management.	Develop training programs, publish technical manuals, integrate into curricula.
Fragmented Governance	Lack of coordination across sectors and agencies.	Establish interdepartmental frameworks and dedicated GBI governance bodies.
Public Misconceptions or Apathy	GBI is often seen as non-essential or merely aesthetic.	Run public education campaigns emphasize flood control, cooling, and air quality.
Climate Uncertainty	GBI performance may decline under extreme heat or erratic rainfall.	Use native, drought-tolerant species and climate-adaptive design principles.
Monitoring and Data Deficiency	Sparse empirical data hinders performance evaluation and policy decisions.	Implement urban monitoring networks and support longitudinal GBI research.

5. The Role of Innovative Technologies and Data Analysis

Innovative technologies and data analysis can play a crucial role in optimizing the performance of GBI and ensuring its long-term effectiveness. These technologies can be used to monitor, model, and manage GBI systems more efficiently.

5.1. Remote Sensing

Remote sensing technologies, such as satellite imagery and aerial photography, can be used to monitor the condition of GBI over large areas. This information can be used to identify areas that need maintenance, assess the effectiveness of GBI in managing storm-water runoff, and track changes in vegetation cover over time.

5.2. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

GIS can be used to map and analyze GBI features, such as parks, green roofs, and wetlands. GIS can also be used to integrate GBI data with other datasets, such as land use, demographics, and infrastructure information.

5.3. Sensor Technologies

Sensors can be used to monitor the performance of GBI in real-time. For example, sensors can be used to measure soil moisture, water levels, and air temperature in GBI systems. This information can be used to optimize irrigation schedules, detect leaks, and identify areas where GBI is not functioning properly.

5.4. Data Analytics and Modeling

Data analytics and modeling techniques can be used to analyze GBI data and predict its performance under different scenarios. For example, models can be used to estimate the amount of storm water runoff that will be captured by a green roof during a rainstorm or to predict the impact of GBI on air temperature in a city. Sophisticated models, such as those incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), can be used to optimize the design and management of GBI for various urban resilience goals.

5.5. Internet of Things (IOT)

IOT devices can be integrated into GBI systems to enable remote monitoring and control. For example, smart irrigation systems can use weather data and soil moisture sensors to automatically adjust watering schedules, reducing water consumption and improving plant health.

Several BGI tactics were assessed in a research conducted in Melbourne's Central Business District using ENVI-MET simulations. While green walls and roofs delivered surface and pedestrian cooling of up to 0.27°C and 0.47°C, respectively, trees offered the best street-level cooling (0.3- 0.9°C). Additionally, vertical greenery cooled nearby facades by 6-10°C (Balany et al., 2022).

6. Community Engagement, Education, and Participatory Planning

Community engagement, education, and participatory planning are essential for promoting the adoption and maintenance of GBI. GBI projects are more likely to be successful if they are supported by the community and meet the needs of local residents.

6.1. Community Education Programs

Education programs can raise awareness of the benefits of GBI and provide communities with the knowledge and skills they need to implement and maintain GBI projects. These programs can include workshops, seminars, and online resources.

6.2. Participatory Planning Processes

Involving communities in the planning process can help to ensure that GBI projects are well-designed, supported by the community, and meet the needs of local residents. Participatory planning processes can include public meetings, surveys, and focus groups.

6.3. Community-Based GBI Initiatives

Supporting community-based GBI initiatives can create a sense of ownership and responsibility for GBI projects. These initiatives can include community gardens, tree planting programs, and neighborhood storm water management projects.

6.4. Citizen Science Programs

Citizen science programs can engage community members in monitoring the performance of GBI. For example, volunteers can be trained to measure water quality, collect data on plant growth, and track changes in biodiversity.

6.5. Promoting Equitable Access to GBI

Ensuring equitable access to GBI is essential for promoting social justice and improving the quality of life for all urban residents. GBI projects should be designed to benefit all communities, regardless of their income level or ethnicity. This includes prioritizing GBI investments in underserved communities that often lack access to green spaces and are disproportionately affected by environmental hazards.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 2. Community engagement framework driving green and blue infrastructure (GBI) success.

A conceptual framework illustrating how community engagement elements- education, equity, participatory planning, and citizen science- interact in a cyclical model to foster the successful implementation and sustainability of Green and Blue Infrastructure (GBI). This holistic engagement approach ensures inclusive, informed, and resilient urban ecological planning.

7. Conclusion

GBI offers a powerful approach to enhancing infrastructure development and urban resilience. By harnessing the power of nature, GBI can provide a multitude of ecosystem services, including storm-water management, temperature regulation, air purification, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation. Integrating GBI into various infrastructure sectors, such as transportation, energy, water management, and the built environment, can lead to more sustainable, resilient, and livable urban communities.

However, the successful implementation of GBI requires addressing several challenges, including land availability, funding mechanisms, stakeholder engagement, policy frameworks, and technical expertise. Innovative technologies, data analysis, community engagement, education, and participatory planning are essential for overcoming these challenges and maximizing the effectiveness of GBI.

8. Future Recommendation for Research

1) Developing more sophisticated models to predict the performance of GBI under different climate change scenarios.

2) Evaluating the long-term economic and social benefits of GBI investments.

3) Developing innovative financing mechanisms to support GBI projects.

4) Promoting equitable access to GBI in underserved communities.

5) Investigating the integration of GBI with emerging technologies, such as smart grids and autonomous vehicles.

6) By embracing GBI as a core component of infrastructure development and urban planning, cities can create more resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban environments for all.

Abbreviations

GBI	Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure
UHI	Urban Heat Island
LST	Land Surface Temperature
IOT	Internet of Things
ML	Machine Learning
AI	Artificial Intelligence

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interests.

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Aluvihara, S., Soren, S., Pestano-Gupta, F., Merzazadah, A. (2025). Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review. American Journal of Environmental Protection, 14(5), 237-246. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17

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Aluvihara, S.; Soren, S.; Pestano-Gupta, F.; Merzazadah, A. Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review. Am. J. Environ. Prot. 2025, 14(5), 237-246. doi: 10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17

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AMA Style

Aluvihara S, Soren S, Pestano-Gupta F, Merzazadah A. Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review. Am J Environ Prot. 2025;14(5):237-246. doi: 10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17

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@article{10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17,
  author = {Suresh Aluvihara and Sabita Soren and Ferial Pestano-Gupta and Ainullah Merzazadah},
  title = {Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review
},
  journal = {American Journal of Environmental Protection},
  volume = {14},
  number = {5},
  pages = {237-246},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajep.20251405.17},
  abstract = {As global urbanization accelerates, cities are increasingly confronted with multifaceted challenges, including climate change impacts, biodiversity loss, and the provision of essential ecosystem services. Traditional grey infrastructure, while foundational, often proves insufficient in addressing these complex issues. This research posits that strategically integrated green and blue elements - encompassing parks, urban forests, wetlands, permeable pavements, and sustainable drainage systems - offer a synergistic approach to infrastructure planning. These natural and semi-natural systems are not merely aesthetic additions but critical components for enhancing the functional capacity of urban environments. They play a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air and water quality, managing storm water runoff, and fostering biodiversity, thereby creating healthier and more livable urban ecosystems. Furthermore, the integration of these natural assets contributes to a more adaptable and robust urban fabric, capable of withstanding and recovering from environmental shocks and stresses. The paper explores the theoretical underpinnings and empirical evidence supporting the deployment of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) within urban planning frameworks, highlighting their capacity to deliver multiple co-benefits that transcend singular engineering solutions. By moving beyond a purely technocentric approach, this work advocates for a paradigm shift towards a more holistic and integrated infrastructure development model that recognizes the intrinsic value and functional performance of natural systems. Blue infrastructure, such as restored wetlands and bioswales, further augments storm water management capabilities, filtering pollutants and recharging groundwater aquifers. Beyond hydrological benefits, green infrastructure contributes to social resilience by providing spaces for recreation, community engagement, and mental well-being, fostering social cohesion and a sense of place. Economically, investments in green and blue infrastructure can yield significant returns through reduced costs associated with flood damage, water treatment, and healthcare, while also stimulating local economies through green job creation and increased property values.
},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review

AU  - Suresh Aluvihara
AU  - Sabita Soren
AU  - Ferial Pestano-Gupta
AU  - Ainullah Merzazadah
Y1  - 2025/10/27
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17
T2  - American Journal of Environmental Protection
JF  - American Journal of Environmental Protection
JO  - American Journal of Environmental Protection
SP  - 237
EP  - 246
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2328-5699
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17
AB  - As global urbanization accelerates, cities are increasingly confronted with multifaceted challenges, including climate change impacts, biodiversity loss, and the provision of essential ecosystem services. Traditional grey infrastructure, while foundational, often proves insufficient in addressing these complex issues. This research posits that strategically integrated green and blue elements - encompassing parks, urban forests, wetlands, permeable pavements, and sustainable drainage systems - offer a synergistic approach to infrastructure planning. These natural and semi-natural systems are not merely aesthetic additions but critical components for enhancing the functional capacity of urban environments. They play a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air and water quality, managing storm water runoff, and fostering biodiversity, thereby creating healthier and more livable urban ecosystems. Furthermore, the integration of these natural assets contributes to a more adaptable and robust urban fabric, capable of withstanding and recovering from environmental shocks and stresses. The paper explores the theoretical underpinnings and empirical evidence supporting the deployment of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) within urban planning frameworks, highlighting their capacity to deliver multiple co-benefits that transcend singular engineering solutions. By moving beyond a purely technocentric approach, this work advocates for a paradigm shift towards a more holistic and integrated infrastructure development model that recognizes the intrinsic value and functional performance of natural systems. Blue infrastructure, such as restored wetlands and bioswales, further augments storm water management capabilities, filtering pollutants and recharging groundwater aquifers. Beyond hydrological benefits, green infrastructure contributes to social resilience by providing spaces for recreation, community engagement, and mental well-being, fostering social cohesion and a sense of place. Economically, investments in green and blue infrastructure can yield significant returns through reduced costs associated with flood damage, water treatment, and healthcare, while also stimulating local economies through green job creation and increased property values.

VL  - 14
IS  - 5
ER  -

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Author Information

Suresh Aluvihara

Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-3535-1201
Sabita Soren

Postgraduate Department of Geography, Fakir Mohan University, Balasore, India

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-5793-8794
Ferial Pestano-Gupta

Division of Natural Sciences, University of Guyana, Tain, Guyana

http://orcid.org/0000-0009-4199-9677
Ainullah Merzazadah

Department of Civil Engineering, University of Alberoni, Golbahar, Afghanistan

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Table 1

Table 1. Key challenges and mitigation strategies for green and blue infrastructure (GBI) implementation.

Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Aluvihara, S., Soren, S., Pestano-Gupta, F., Merzazadah, A. (2025). Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review. American Journal of Environmental Protection, 14(5), 237-246. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17

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ACS Style

Aluvihara, S.; Soren, S.; Pestano-Gupta, F.; Merzazadah, A. Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review. Am. J. Environ. Prot. 2025, 14(5), 237-246. doi: 10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17

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AMA Style

Aluvihara S, Soren S, Pestano-Gupta F, Merzazadah A. Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review. Am J Environ Prot. 2025;14(5):237-246. doi: 10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17,
  author = {Suresh Aluvihara and Sabita Soren and Ferial Pestano-Gupta and Ainullah Merzazadah},
  title = {Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review
},
  journal = {American Journal of Environmental Protection},
  volume = {14},
  number = {5},
  pages = {237-246},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajep.20251405.17},
  abstract = {As global urbanization accelerates, cities are increasingly confronted with multifaceted challenges, including climate change impacts, biodiversity loss, and the provision of essential ecosystem services. Traditional grey infrastructure, while foundational, often proves insufficient in addressing these complex issues. This research posits that strategically integrated green and blue elements - encompassing parks, urban forests, wetlands, permeable pavements, and sustainable drainage systems - offer a synergistic approach to infrastructure planning. These natural and semi-natural systems are not merely aesthetic additions but critical components for enhancing the functional capacity of urban environments. They play a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air and water quality, managing storm water runoff, and fostering biodiversity, thereby creating healthier and more livable urban ecosystems. Furthermore, the integration of these natural assets contributes to a more adaptable and robust urban fabric, capable of withstanding and recovering from environmental shocks and stresses. The paper explores the theoretical underpinnings and empirical evidence supporting the deployment of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) within urban planning frameworks, highlighting their capacity to deliver multiple co-benefits that transcend singular engineering solutions. By moving beyond a purely technocentric approach, this work advocates for a paradigm shift towards a more holistic and integrated infrastructure development model that recognizes the intrinsic value and functional performance of natural systems. Blue infrastructure, such as restored wetlands and bioswales, further augments storm water management capabilities, filtering pollutants and recharging groundwater aquifers. Beyond hydrological benefits, green infrastructure contributes to social resilience by providing spaces for recreation, community engagement, and mental well-being, fostering social cohesion and a sense of place. Economically, investments in green and blue infrastructure can yield significant returns through reduced costs associated with flood damage, water treatment, and healthcare, while also stimulating local economies through green job creation and increased property values.
},
 year = {2025}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Role of Green Spaces and Blue Infrastructure in Infrastructure Development and Urban Resilience: A Review

AU  - Suresh Aluvihara
AU  - Sabita Soren
AU  - Ferial Pestano-Gupta
AU  - Ainullah Merzazadah
Y1  - 2025/10/27
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17
T2  - American Journal of Environmental Protection
JF  - American Journal of Environmental Protection
JO  - American Journal of Environmental Protection
SP  - 237
EP  - 246
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2328-5699
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajep.20251405.17
AB  - As global urbanization accelerates, cities are increasingly confronted with multifaceted challenges, including climate change impacts, biodiversity loss, and the provision of essential ecosystem services. Traditional grey infrastructure, while foundational, often proves insufficient in addressing these complex issues. This research posits that strategically integrated green and blue elements - encompassing parks, urban forests, wetlands, permeable pavements, and sustainable drainage systems - offer a synergistic approach to infrastructure planning. These natural and semi-natural systems are not merely aesthetic additions but critical components for enhancing the functional capacity of urban environments. They play a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air and water quality, managing storm water runoff, and fostering biodiversity, thereby creating healthier and more livable urban ecosystems. Furthermore, the integration of these natural assets contributes to a more adaptable and robust urban fabric, capable of withstanding and recovering from environmental shocks and stresses. The paper explores the theoretical underpinnings and empirical evidence supporting the deployment of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) within urban planning frameworks, highlighting their capacity to deliver multiple co-benefits that transcend singular engineering solutions. By moving beyond a purely technocentric approach, this work advocates for a paradigm shift towards a more holistic and integrated infrastructure development model that recognizes the intrinsic value and functional performance of natural systems. Blue infrastructure, such as restored wetlands and bioswales, further augments storm water management capabilities, filtering pollutants and recharging groundwater aquifers. Beyond hydrological benefits, green infrastructure contributes to social resilience by providing spaces for recreation, community engagement, and mental well-being, fostering social cohesion and a sense of place. Economically, investments in green and blue infrastructure can yield significant returns through reduced costs associated with flood damage, water treatment, and healthcare, while also stimulating local economies through green job creation and increased property values.

VL  - 14
IS  - 5
ER  -

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