naturebased

Naturebased refers to approaches that use natural processes and ecosystems to address societal challenges. The term is commonly used in the phrase nature-based solutions (NbS). NbS aim to protect, sustainably manage, and restore ecosystems to deliver benefits for people, including climate regulation, water security, disaster risk reduction, health, and livelihoods, while conserving biodiversity and ecosystem services. They can augment or replace conventional gray infrastructure with ecologically informed design and governance.

Common applications include forest restoration and afforestation for carbon storage; mangrove and wetland restoration for coastal protection; urban green infrastructure such as parks, green roofs, and rain gardens to reduce heat and manage stormwater; river and watershed restoration to improve water quality; agroforestry and landscape restoration to support livelihoods. NbS emphasize multiple benefits and resilience, often integrating community participation and local knowledge.

Implementation requires context-specific planning, monitoring, and governance to ensure ecological functioning and equitable outcomes. Challenges include funding gaps, land-use trade-offs, maintenance, and the risk of overpromising benefits. NbS are referenced in international policy discussions and development frameworks, including ecosystem restoration and biodiversity initiatives, and align with climate targets under the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.