Nature-based solutions in action: Lessons from the frontline

This report is intended to present real-life evidence of how high quality NbS can deliver positive outcomes for climate, nature and people. It highlights common success factors to ensure that NbS are implemented well for the benefit of people, nature and climate. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) have the power to tackle biodiversity loss, climate change and poverty in an integrated way, so their appeal to governments, businesses and civil society groups is understandable. If done well, Nature-based solutions could hold the key to cost-effective ways of protecting, sustainably managing, and restoring ecosystems, while at the same time addressing societal challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty and inequality. However, they have to be good for people – particularly those who are marginalised and indigenous people and local communities. This report highlights successful NbS across a wide range of contexts. 

The case studies reveal several ‘success factors’ that can put NbS on firm foundations. These include:

• Integrated approaches that conserve, restore and sustainably work with nature;
• Landscape approaches that build on long-term multistakeholder partnerships;
• Long-term engagements and planning that combine science with local and traditional knowledge;
• Participatory approaches that ensure strong community ownership and engagement;
• Combining short-term and long-term benefits, and securing them through sustainable finance strategies;
• Developing policies that can remove barriers and drive systemic changes at large scales; and
• Action on gender equality and women’s rights.