The new WaterProof module expands the tool's capabilities to support communities and institutional actors in designing strategies aimed at reducing flood risk through Nature-Based Solutions (NbS). This module allows for the analysis of hydrological and exposure scenarios in urban and rural areas, identifying areas where the implementation of NBS can offer the greatest benefit in terms of reducing flood depth and extent, thereby helping to strengthen the resilience of the territory to extreme events.

Using a spatial analysis model, WaterProof combines information on land use, topography, drainage, precipitation, and runoff flows to estimate the potential impact of different types of natural interventions. In this way, the tool allows for the comparison of alternatives, the quantification of environmental and social return on investment, and the guidance of decision-making toward those solutions that generate the greatest benefits for both communities and ecosystems.

The following chart explains the main steps of the flood mitigation module:

a. Configure the watershed where you will perform the flood analysis.

1. Indicate the watershed polygon:
Select or draw on the map the boundary of the watershed on which you wish to perform the analysis.

This polygon will allow the system to identify the drainage area and critical points where possible mitigation measures will be evaluated.

2. Define the resolution level of the digital terrain model:
Select the level of detail with which you want to perform the analysis.

Higher resolution allows for more accurate identification of topography, runoff flows, and flood-prone areas, optimizing the simulation of the benefits of NbS.

b. Set up your case study:

1. Link the created basin. This information will allow the system to delimit the study area.

2. Configure the objectives and activities of the analysis.

3. Make the financial configurations. Include the economic parameters of the project, such as implementation and maintenance costs.

4. Run the analysis. Launch the simulation by entering the estimated storm duration and the climate scenario under which you wish to evaluate the performance of Nature-based Solutions.

5. Take advantage of the analysis results. The system will present you with suggested areas for implementing SbNs, as well as areas that will benefit from reduced flood extent. It will also show the return on investment.