Chennai can save crores by going Green, says CSTEP report

bengaluru: a new study by the center for study of science, technology and policy (cstep) has outlined how chennai can effectively tackle climate extremes—such as heatwaves and flash floods—by embedding nature-based solutions (nbs) into urban planning and development strategies.the report, titled urban greenprints: leveraging nature-based solutions to address urban climate risks, advocates for integrating nbs into policy, budgeting, and infrastructure design, rather than treating them as isolated interventions.it estimates that an investment of ₹2,203 crore in targeted nbs projects—such as green rooftops, permeable streets, urban farms, and wetland restoration—across selected city wards could lead to economic savings of over ₹500 crore in flood damage mitigation and co-benefits.innorth chennai, for instance, converting even a portion of flat concrete rooftops into gardens could boost local green cover by more than 70%, leading to reduced heat stress, improved air quality, and enhanced rainwater absorption. similarly, shifting to permeable pavements in water-logged zones can help recharge groundwater while alleviating flooding.chennai's wetlands also play a vital role, acting as natural buffers that absorb stormwater and filter pollutants. preserving lakes and catchments can shield neighbourhoods from floods and support local biodiversity.several pilot initiatives, such as the chennai urban farming initiative, are already yielding results. rooftop gardens and mobile farms in schools, homes, and shelters are not only cooling spaces and producing food but also creating jobs and learning opportunities—especially for women and youth."even modest ward-level investments in green infrastructure can bring long-term ecological and economic benefits," said lakshmi menon, senior analyst at cstep. "nature must be seen as a core component of urban resilience."the report calls for flexible, community-driven approaches that start small and scale up over time, offering chennai a roadmap to a greener, cooler, and more climate-resilient future.