Organisers: Zahra Kalantari, Carla S.S. Ferreira, David C. Finger, Saskia Keesstra
Abstract
Nature-based solutions (NBS) for land and water management can be flexible and multi-beneficial not only to prevent and mitigate climate-related risks, but also improve human well-being and further pave the way towards a more resource efficient, competitive and greener economy. Developing climate change adaptation and mitigation using NBS can provide more resilient responses and enhance the storage of carbon. However, adequate proof-of-concept for economic, social, and environmental benefits provided by NBS is needed to promote their inclusion in planning and decision-making processes. This session aims to give an overview of case studies and developments of new theoretical/analytical tools and methods to demonstrate the effectiveness and sustainability of (different types of) NBS depending on local conditions. The session seeks to:
- Better understand advantages and disadvantages of NBS, based on field applications.
- Discuss opportunities and challenges associated with the development and systematic use of NBS in cities, landscapes and seascapes.
- Identifying opportunities and barriers driven by current regulatory frameworks and management practices, and how the former can be reaped and the latter overcome, for sustainable implementation of effective NBS.
- Developing a NBS proof–of–concept regarding environmental, social and economic challenges for sustainable development.
- Promote low carbon and circular economy concepts based on NBS for sustainable and prosperous development
Key words: nature-based solutions, land and water management, climate change mitigation and adaptation, disaster risk reduction.