naturbaserte

Naturbaserte is a Norwegian term referring to approaches, products, or interventions that rely on nature or natural processes to deliver benefits. In practice, naturbaserte is commonly used in connection with naturbaserte løsninger (nature-based solutions), which address societal challenges by employing ecosystems, ecological processes, and biodiversity rather than relying solely on engineered systems. The concept emphasizes that nature can provide services such as climate regulation, flood protection, water purification, and recreational value.

Naturbaserte tilnærminger cover a broad range of activities. Examples include urban green infrastructure like parks, street trees, and green roofs; restoration and management of wetlands, rivers, and coastal habitats; forest and agroforestry practices; and water-management measures that prioritize natural or hybrid approaches, such as permeable surfaces and natural floodplains. These strategies aim to combine ecological integrity with social and economic benefits, including improved air and water quality, biodiversity enhancement, and climate resilience.

Benefits often highlighted for naturbaserte løsninger include increased resilience to extreme weather, potential long-term cost savings, and multiple co-benefits for health, well-being, and biodiversity. Effectiveness, however, depends on site-specific factors, scale, design, and ongoing maintenance. Critics caution against viewing naturbaserte solutions as a universal substitute for essential grey infrastructure and warn against inadequate planning or monitoring that could undermine outcomes.

Policy and practice increasingly integrate naturbaserte approaches into urban planning, climate adaptation, and ecosystem management. They align with national, Nordic, and EU frameworks that promote nature-based solutions and ecosystem services, promoting cross-sector cooperation to maximize ecological and social benefits.