WaterProof—A Web-Based System to Provide Rapid ROI Calculation and Early Indication of a Preferred Portfolio of Nature-Based Solutions in Watersheds

Abstract

Watersheds are being degraded around the world, with dire impacts on water security. Nature-based solutions (NbS) can preserve or restore degraded watersheds, thereby addressing critical water security issues; however, there is a lack of NbS uptake and investment. This is in part due to the complexity and time required to demonstrate an NbS portfolio’s positive return on investment (ROI) for desired water security outcomes. WaterProof is a web-based decision support tool to provide a rapid ROI calculation and early indication of a preferred portfolio of NbS for any watershed in the world using Natural Capital ecosystem service models (InVEST and RiOS). WaterProof is intended to engage stakeholders interested in exploring green infrastructure solutions for local water challenges and for prioritization of locations of possible NbS water security programs. WaterProof version 1.0 is freely available and open-sourced, with clear methodology and metadata, with a user-friendly interface suitable for a wide range of potential audiences.

Keywords

• nature-based solutions
• return on investment
• watershed conservation
• water security