Teaming up with nature: Policy advice for more nature-based solutions in the Nordics

The report provides a comprehensive policy handbook aimed at enhancing the use of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) across the Nordic countries. Developed by the A-DVICE project under the Nordic Council of Ministers, the report offers strategic guidance to policymakers at local, regional, and national levels to help mainstream and scale NBS in environmental and climate policies. It defines NBS as actions that restore and manage ecosystems to address societal challenges like climate change, while enhancing biodiversity and human well-being. The study emphasizes the need for integrated, cross-sectoral governance and supportive policy frameworks to enable widespread and effective NBS implementation.

The report identifies significant barriers to NBS uptake in the Nordic context, including funding limitations, fragmented governance, lack of awareness, and insufficient strategic direction. It presents practical policy recommendations and highlights successful case studies from each Nordic country. Opportunities such as earmarked funding, stronger municipal planning frameworks, and increased knowledge-sharing are identified as key enablers. The study aligns NBS with international commitments like the Paris Agreement and the EU Biodiversity Strategy, advocating for stronger political will, coordination, and inclusion of diverse actors to realize the full potential of NBS in climate adaptation and biodiversity recovery.