This open access book introduces the function implementation and governance of green
infrastructure in Japan and other countries where lands are geologically fragile and
climatologically susceptible to climate change. It proposes green infrastructure as an
adaptation strategy for climate change and biodiversity conservation. In the face of climate
change dams levees and floodways built as disaster prevention facilities do not sufficiently
function against extraordinary events such as mega-floods and tsunami disasters. To prevent
those disasters and loss of biodiversity in various ecosystems we should shift from
conventional hard measures to more adaptive strategies using various functions that natural and
semi-natural ecosystems provide. Green infrastructure is an interconnected network of waterways
wetlands woodlands wildlife habitats and other natural areas that support native species
maintain natural ecological processes sustain air and water resources and contribute to the
health and quality of life for communities and people. Green infrastructure has mainly been
discussed from adaptation strategy perspectives in cities and urban areas. However to protect
cities which are generally situated at downstream lower elevations we explore the
preservation and restoration of forests at headwater basins and wetlands along rivers from a
catchment perspective. In addition the quantitative examination of flood risk biodiversity
and social-economic benefits described in this book brings new perspectives to the discussion.
The aim of this book is to accelerate the transformative changes from gray-based adaptation
strategies to green- or hybrid-based strategies to adapt to climate change. The book provides
essential information on the structure function and maintenance of green infrastructure for
scientists university students government officers and practitioners.
