PWK UGM Holds Academic Workshop “Nature-based Solutions: Bringing Theory into Practice”

The rapid pace of urbanization and the growing challenges of climate change require urban planners to continuously seek innovative approaches, particularly in strengthening environmental resilience and managing water resources. Responding to these challenges, the Department of Architectural Engineering and Planning at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) successfully organized an Academic Workshop titled “Nature-based Solutions: Bringing Theory into Practice” on Monday, March 9, 2026, at the Meeting Room, 2nd Floor, Department of Architectural Engineering and Planning.

The workshop served not only as a theoretical discussion forum but also as a platform to bridge the gap between academic ideas, government policies, and practical implementation in communities. The event also represented a cross-institutional and international collaboration, particularly strengthening cooperation with partners from Germany through the PolyUrbanWaters (PUW) initiative. The workshop involved stakeholders from the Sleman Regency and Yogyakarta City governments, academics, and students.

The event was opened by Dr.Eng. Alexander Rani Suryandono, S.T., M.Arch., Head of the Department of Architectural Engineering and Planning, and moderated by Prof. Ir. Bakti Setiawan, MA, Ph.D. The discussion brought together global perspectives and local actions. From the international perspective, Xhesika Hoxha from TH Köln University introduced participants to assessment and selection tools for Nature-based Solutions (NBS) in water resilience. The discussion was further developed by Prof. Anke Hagemann and Lukas Pappert from Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin), who highlighted Water Sensitive Planning methodologies and the importance of multi-stakeholder participation.

To ensure the relevance of these concepts in practice, the workshop also explored real-world implementation challenges. Hasanatun Nisa Thamrin, a representative from Yayasan Kota Kita and part of the PUW Project Team, presented the challenges of transforming theory into practice through case studies in Sariharjo, particularly in the Rejodani and Randugowang areas. The discussion was complemented by Nur Fitri Handayani, S.STP, M.Si., Head of the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) of Sleman Regency, who provided strategic insights into local government responses and policies for adopting water-sensitive spatial planning.

Through this discussion, PWK UGM continues to strengthen its commitment to producing urban planners who are not only conceptually strong but also capable of implementing nature-based solutions within communities. This Academic Workshop contributes to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through flood mitigation strategies and improving urban livability, as well as SDG 13 (Climate Action) through Nature-based Solutions (NBS) approaches for climate adaptation and mitigation. The activity also supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) through Water Sensitive Planning (WSP) in urban water resource management and strengthens SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration between UGM, TH Köln, TU Berlin, Bappeda Sleman, and Yayasan Kota Kita. Furthermore, the workshop contributes to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by promoting green infrastructure development and nature-based spatial planning innovations.