Building resilient communities: A conversation with The Nature Conservancy
As weather patterns continue to shift, communities across the country face increasing challenges. Protecting homes and businesses requires a proactive approach—one that focuses on resilience, smart planning, and stronger building standards.
Mark Berven, President and COO of Nationwide Property & Casualty, recently spoke with Marek Smith, North America Fire Director and Fire Networks Co-Director of The Nature Conservancy (TNC), about how science-backed strategies are making a difference. Their discussion highlights practical steps homeowners can take, the importance of building codes, and how agents can help advocate for stronger protections in their communities.
How The Nature Conservancy is advancing resilience
For over 60 years, The Nature Conservancy has worked to reduce environmental risks through research, policy advocacy, and on-the-ground solutions. Their efforts focus on restoring landscapes, supporting sustainable land management practices, and helping communities become more resilient. In this clip, Marek Smith shares more about TNC’s mission and long-standing commitment to these efforts.
Nationwide Foundation’s commitment to strengthening communities
To support these efforts, the Nationwide Foundation donated $250,000 to TNC’s North America Fire Program. This funding helps expand initiatives that protect natural areas and enhance safety measures for communities in at-risk regions. Learn how this investment is being put to work.
Shifting the focus from recovery to prevention
Traditionally, much of the response to natural disasters has been reactive – helping communities rebuild after damage occurs. However, there is growing momentum around prevention-first strategies, ensuring that homes, businesses, and infrastructure are better prepared before severe weather events happen. Watch below to see how TNC aligns with this shift in thinking.
Steps homeowners can take to protect their properties
Small changes can make a big difference when it comes to strengthening homes. From creating defensible space around a property to using impact-resistant building materials, there are proactive steps that homeowners can take to reduce risk and improve overall resilience. Marek Smith shares key insights on what homeowners should consider.
Why stronger building standards matter
One of the most effective ways to enhance protection is through stronger building codes and construction standards. Modern codes ensure that homes and businesses are designed to withstand various environmental challenges, improving overall community resilience. In this video, Marek Smith discusses why these standards are a priority for TNC and other organizations working in this space.
Looking ahead: TNC’s long-term vision
Beyond immediate mitigation efforts, TNC has set ambitious goals to help protect land, support sustainable practices, and invest in long-term community resilience. By 2030, their work will contribute to carbon reduction, land conservation, and improved safety measures for at-risk communities. Watch below to learn about TNC’s broader mission.
A proven strategy: The role of controlled burns
One of the proactive strategies used to maintain healthy landscapes is controlled burning, a carefully managed process that helps reduce excess vegetation, restore ecosystems, and lower risks over time. Learn how this practice has been safely used for generations.
How agents can help strengthen community resilience
Beyond helping clients understand protection options, agents have an opportunity to advocate for stronger building codes in their communities. By supporting modernized building standards and educating clients on the benefits of IBHS Fortified Standards, agents can play a key role in enhancing preparedness and reducing future risks.
Here’s how agents can take action:
- Share information on IBHS Fortified Standards and how they help strengthen homes.
- Encourage clients to consider risk-reducing home improvements.
- Advocate for stronger building codes by contacting elected officials and supporting policies that prioritize resilience.
To help facilitate these discussions, Nationwide developed a helpful guide outlining valuable insights into building codes and standards, the impact of severe weather on homes and businesses, and how you can engage with elected officials to drive change.
Click here to learn more about The Nature Conservancy’s North America Fire Program.