Project Overview
Project Description
This project aims to develop an open-source library of 3D models and engineering design guidelines for Nature-based Solutions (NbS) that address water security, urban resilience, and climate adaptation challenges globally.
The Fellow will create realistic and scalable 3D NbS models compatible with Autodesk InfraWorks and Civil 3D, representing a diverse set of interventions applicable to urban, agricultural, and natural landscapes. The final list of NbS to be modeled will be defined collaboratively with the Fellow, but these will include examples from the below list:
Forest Conservation; Passive Restoration; Active Restoration – Enrichment Planting / Applied Nucleation; Riparian Vegetation Restoration; Floodplains; River or Stream Re-naturalization; Vegetated Filter Areas and Channels; Bio-retention Ponds; Constructed Wetlands; Rain Gardens; Infiltration Trenches; Green Open Spaces; Floodable Parks; Permeable Pavements; Urban Forestry; Green Roofs; Green Pedestrian and Cycle Paths; Agroforestry Systems; Rainwater Harvesting Systems; Silvopastoral Systems; Check Dams; Vegetated Terraces; Invasive Plants Removal.
Each NbS model will be complemented with general engineering design and implementation guidelines, including indicative dimensions, schematic sections, and key technical considerations for effective design and implementation.
By the end of the Fellowship, the project will deliver:
- A library of open-source 3D NbS models ready for integration into Autodesk InfraWorks and Civil 3D.
- Engineering briefs and metadata for each NbS, summarizing key parameters and design recommendations.
- A public documentation and user guide, available through an open-access repository (GitHub).
Impact
The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. The project is expected to have a significant environmental and social impact by improving the way Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are designed, visualized, and communicated globally. By creating a library of 3D NbS models and accompanying engineering guidelines, the project will make it easier for practitioners, planners, and decision-makers to understand and integrate NbS into water and land management projects.
Eligibility Criteria
Skills / Experience:
- Required:
- 3D modeling for environmental or infrastructure applications.
- CAD rendering
- Strong understanding of engineering design principles related to hydrology, landscape design, or environmental infrastructure.
- Experience working with geospatial data (e.g., DEMs, shapefiles) and integrating spatial context into design visualizations.
- Ability to work independently in a virtual, collaborative environment and communicate effectively with a multidisciplinary team.
- Desired:
- Knowledge of Nature-based Solutions (NbS), green infrastructure, or ecosystem-based adaptation approaches.
- Familiarity with sustainable water management or climate resilience projects.
- Experience in developing open-source materials or technical documentation for broad dissemination.
- Interest in linking engineering design with environmental conservation and public communication.
Software Proficiency:
- Autodesk InfraWorks, Civil 3D, 3DS Max
Discipline:
- Architecture or Environmental Engineering
Preferred Fellow Local Experience (All projects can be completed remotely):
- N/A
Preferred Timezone (when the Fellow should be available for meetings):
- Compatibility with UTC-5, Colombia Time
