Decision making in a nature-positive world: Nature-based solutions for sectors

These four sector-specific business briefings were developed by the The University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) detailing the challenges and actions needed to implement nature-based solutions (NbS) projects. These sectors include: Water, Finance, Food and Beverage, and Built Environment and Linear Infrastructure. These respective briefs describe the regulatory, policy and operational imperatives that support the adoption of nature-based solutions at scale. They then highlight the business case for their respective sector and provide proven approaches to cost-effective, nature-based measures and successful UK projects. Finally, the briefs explore common challenges to adopting NbS, and how co-benefits can be leveraged by working across sectors.

The briefings indicates surging interest among the private sector, local authorities, farmers and other land owners to collaborate on solutions. The water and food and beverage sectors in particular are on the leading edge with scalable collaborative models are emerging to support. The approaches in both sectors are complementary such as rejuvenating and maintaining natural ecosystems like floodplain meadows and natural grasslands. These measures reduce soil erosion restore soil fertility, lessening the need for water-polluting pesticides. Urban vegetation and green spaces are highlighted in the Built Environment and Linear Infrastructure briefing. These NbS projects intend to improve air quality and reduce urban heat, among other desirable effects. Permeable pavements are also crucial enhancements for municipal drainage systems. The financial sector has traditionally been relegated to the sidelines in nature-based solutions. However, according to the authors, rising economic and financial toll from climate impacts means that financiers must understand take into account significant business and societal risk.