As the academic year comes to a close, UMass INFORMS was excited to host a final speaker for the 2024-25 academic year. On April 25, 2025, we invited Dr. Marta Vicarelli, Assistant Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Dr. Vicarelli delivered a very engaging talk on “Nature-based Solutions: Cost-effectiveness and Financial Innovation”.
She was welcomed warmly by the audience as well as Professor Anna Nagurney and our chapter president, Ismael Pour, who provided a brief introduction of her background and many achievements.
During her presentation, Dr. Vicarelli explained the difference between mitigation and adaptation. She mentioned that nature-based interventions use nature or other nature-related elements to protect infrastructure and resources. She also highlighted the differences between engineering and nature-based solutions and described that engineering solutions involve creating new infrastructure, while nature-based solutions involve methods that focus on preserving local ecosystems. These solutions can be used for disaster risk mitigation and serve as interventions against extreme events. Additionally, they can also be employed for productive service and improvements in the livelihoods of people. The big question for these solutions is whether they are cost-effective, and it was found that they are very cost-effective. Dr. Vicarelli noted that insurance companies are extremely interested in using nature-based solutions, and literature has shown that coral reefs and insurance have a strong linkage.
Following the presentation, the audience engaged with Dr. Vicarelli by asking many thoughtful questions.
Refreshments, including coffee, croissants, and muffins, were provided for both the speaker and the audience.
After the presentation, we, along with our advisor, Professor Anna Nagurney, hosted Dr. Vicarelli for lunch at the Commonwealth Restaurant at UMass Amherst. The food was delightful, and the desserts were enticing; however, what made it most memorable was the excellent company.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Vicarelli for graciously accepting our invitation and delivering such an impactful talk. We also appreciate the support from all OIM and MIE faculty, chapter members, and Professor Nagurney for her assistance with this event.
As always, stay tuned for more exciting events at UMass Amherst, whether during this the fall semester or in the future. Our next planned event will be the End-of-Semester Party on May 2, and we hope to see you there!