Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) include a range of approaches and actions based on the idea that, when ecosystems are healthy and well managed, they provide essential benefits to people while enabling nature conservation.
Definition of Nature-Based Solutions
To define nature-based solutions, in 2016 the IUCN described them as
“actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural or modified ecosystems that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, while simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits.”
Another definition of nature-based solutions comes from the European Commission, which describes them as
“solutions inspired and supported by nature, which are cost-effective, simultaneously provide environmental, social, and economic benefits, and help build resilience. These solutions bring more nature, as well as more diverse natural features and processes, into cities, landscapes, and seascapes through systemic, locally adapted, and resource-efficient interventions.”
Through the different definitions of nature-based solutions, we can understand the concept of nature-based approaches, from habitat restoration and water resource management to disaster risk reduction and the creation of green infrastructure.
Since nature provides solutions to global challenges, we should consider NBS as a remedy rather than an obstacle to human activities.
In reality, however, it is difficult to determine the exact meaning of nature-based solutions, given the ambiguity of the term and the lack of clearly defined standards. In fact, the concept of nature-based solutions integrates multiple scientific fields of action, identified as:
- Inspired and powered by solutions found in nature
- Addressing social challenges or solving problems
- Providing multiple benefits, including increasing biodiversity.
Nature-based solutions to climate change
The goal of nature-based solutions is to support the achievement of society’s development goals and protect human well-being. They also strengthen ecosystem resilience, their capacity for renewal, and the provision of services. Nature-based solutions are designed to address major societal challenges in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN 2030 Agenda. Let’s look at some examples of the benefits of nature-based solutions:
- Increasing food security
- Reducing climate change and greenhouse gas emissions
- Protecting water security and water resources
- Protecting human health
- Reducing disaster risk
- Improving air quality
- Developing social and economic aspects
This type of natural solution to climate change comes in many forms to preserve nature:
- Nature-based solutions for coasts: ecosystem restoration can reduce the impact of waves and storms, while also reducing fishing pressure, restoring biodiversity, and improving carbon sequestration.
- Nature-based solutions for cities: wetlands, green roofs, or nature-based rainwater collection systems reduce flooding caused by heavy rainfall. They also improve water and air quality and enhance ecological refuges for biodiversity.
- Nature-based solutions for watersheds: restoring and managing watersheds and rivers regulates water flows and improves both water quality and quantity. This ensures the protection of water resources and services.
How WildSteps contributes to nature-based solution projects
WildSteps is an innovative startup that supports companies in creating and implementing a sustainability culture aligned with the nature-based approach.
One of the NBS-related benefits WildSteps offers is raising people’s awareness by bringing them into nature to practice citizen science through outdoor activities. Secondly, it engages and enhances company teams through activities focused on nature-based solutions.
As a company, this type of project can be integrated into an ESG strategy and can increase employee well-being by giving people the opportunity to feel useful while collecting data that contribute to environmental conservation and, in particular, to the development of marine and terrestrial nature-based solutions. It will also make them even prouder to work for the company.