Green Infrastructure (GI) refers to a strategically planned network of natural and semi-natural spaces. In urban environments specifically, GI serves as a nature-based solution which is multi-functional and economically and socially sustainable, compared to grey infrastructure. GI provides ​​clean air and water and carbon storage, enhances biodiversity and wildlife, and helps cities with climate change adaptation attempts. 

Planning new GI projects and maintaining existing GI in urban environments requires a clear identification and understanding of GI elements in place. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) Mapping technology can assist in the mapping of existing GI and can help decision makers and governments in incorporating GI into local area development and plan making. It can help to identify areas that are particularly prone to climate change consequences such as floods and droughts, and can also assist with the analyses of existing ecological networks.

Specific tools can help to make sense of complex individual environmental and socio-economic datasets providing information on the natural capacity and resources in a specific region.