Nature-based Solutions for Our Environment

Nature-Based Solutions:  Using Native Plants to Address Our Region's Greatest Challenges

South Florida and the greater Caribbean basin face mounting environmental and societal challenges—from sea level rise and intensifying hurricanes to algal blooms, flooding, and urban heat. At the heart of many solutions to these issues are plants and the ecosystems they support. Join us to explore how Naples Botanical Garden is partnering across the region to implement nature-based solutions that restore ecosystems, enhance coastal resilience, and improve quality of life. This presentation will highlight current research and restoration efforts, including innovative work on dune ecosystems and strategies for building a more climate-resilient future through Nature-Based Solutions.

Chad Washburn is the Vice President of Conservation at Naples Botanical Garden and the Center for Nature-Based Solutions at Naples Botanical Garden. He is responsible for the development of the Garden’s plant conservation strategy and implementation of the program. Chad leads the Conservation and Natural Resources team, focusing on projects that ensure the long-term survival of the flora and ecosystems of South Florida and the Caribbean region through integrated plant conservation efforts.