Nature-based solutions (NBS) include a range of approaches and actions based on the idea that when ecosystems are healthy and well managed, they provide essential benefits to people, enabling nature preservation.
Nature based solutions definition
To define nature based solutions, the UCN has determined it in 2016 as “actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural or modified ecosystems, that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits”.
Another definition of nature based solutions is given by the European Commission as “solutions that are inspired and supported by nature, which are cost-effective, simultaneously provide environmental, social and economic benefits and help build resilience. Such solutions bring more, and more diverse, nature and natural features and processes into cities, landscapes and seascapes, through locally adapted, resource-efficient and systemic interventions.”
Through the different nature based solutions definitions, we understand the concept as solutions in nature, from habitat restoration, water resource management, reduction of disaster risk and creation of green infrastructures.
Because Nature provides solutions to global challenges, we should be considering NBS as a remedy rather than a brake to human activities.
But in reality, it’s difficult to determine the nature based solutions meaning, in view of his ambiguity and the establishment of clear standards. In fact, the concept of nature-based solutions integrate multiple scientific action fields identified as:
- Inspired and powered by solutions in nature
- Raise societal challenges or resolve problems
- Provide multiple benefits, including biodiversity gains
Nature based solutions to climate change
The goal of nature-based solutions is to support the achievement of societal development goals and protect human well-being. They also strengthen the resilience of ecosystems, their capacity for renewal and the provision of services. Nature based solutions are designed to address major societal challenges in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the ONU Agenda 2030. Let’s take some nature based solutions benefits examples such as:
- Increasing food security
- Reducing climate change and greenhouse gas emissions
- Protecting water security and resources
- Protecting human health
- Reducing disaster risk
- Improving air quality
- Developing social and economic aspects
This type of natural solution for climate change come in many forms to preserve nature:
Nature-based solutions for coastlines:
Restoring ecosystems can reduce the impact of waves and storm surges, while reducing fishing, restoring biodiversity, and enhancing carbon sequestration
Nature-based solutions for cities:
Wetlands, green roofs or nature-based stormwater systems reduce flooding from heavy rains. Also, they improve water and air quality, and improve ecological halls for biodiversity.
Nature-based solutions for watersheds:
Restoring and managing watersheds and rivers regulate water flows and improve water quality and quantity. This ensures the protection of water resources and services.
How OutBe contributes to nature based solutions projects
OutBe is an innovative startup that supports companies in creating and implementing a sustainable brand aligned with nature based approach.
One of the NBS benefits that OutBe provides, is to wake-up consciousness by bringing people in nature to make citizen science through outdoor sports. Secondly it engages and valorises the company team thanks to activities on nature based solutions.
As a company, this type of project can be integrated with an ESG strategy and increases your employees welfare and gives them the opportunity to feel useful by collecting data, that helps conserving the environment and more particularly developing marine and terrestrial nature based solutions. Moreover, this will make them even more proud to be working for the company.