Nature-based solutions – is something new under the sun?

Introduction to the session

Nature-based solutions (NBS) can be defined as solutions mobilising natural ecosystem processes to support the delivery of ecosystem services such as climate mitigation and adaptation. A key role is played by biodiversity, either acting as a mechanism behind the generation of ecosystem services or being a co-benefit. 

In this session, we will critically examine the role of NBS in tackling both climate change and biodiversity loss. Key questions are: Are NBS novel instruments or just old wine in a new bottle? Is biodiversity critical as a mechanism for the functioning of NBS? Do NBS contribute to biodiversity conservation as such? We will provide a historical overview of NBS as a policy tool, illustrate its implementation in practice, discuss the science underpinning NBS with a special focus on the role of biodiversity, illustrate the multitude of ecosystem-services and nature’s contribution to people that can benefit from NBS, and propose ways forward. 

Session programme

11:00: Introduction
Henrik Smith, Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University
Emily Boyd, Centre for Sustainability Studies, Lund University
Paul Miller, Dept of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science, Lund University

11:15: Nature-based coastal protection– lessons learned from 12 European case studies
Helena Hanson, Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University
Johanna Alkan Olsson, Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University

11:30: The dual role of biodiversity in nature-based solutions
Carolina Rodriquez, Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University

11:45: Nature-based solutions and human well-being – some insights from environmental psychology
Marlis Wullenkord, Environmental Psychology, Lund University
Maria Johansson, Environmental Psychology, Lund University

12:00: Nature-based solutions may offer something new if designed and implemented with transformation in mind
Mike Jones, SLU Centre for Biodiversity Conservation

12:15: Establishing the concept of Nature-based solutions Services to promote biodiversity, well-being and scalable solutions: NBSPLUS project
Ursula S. McKnight, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Norrköping
 

Further information about the session

Keywords: Ecosystem services; Nature’s contribution to people, biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, climate mitigation 

Language: English

Time and venue: 11:00-12:30, Europa.

Organisers:

• Henrik Smith, Lund University
• Emily Boyd, Lund University
• Paul Miller, Lund University 

Strategy for transformative change in focus for the session

IPBES highlights 5 complementary key strategies for transformative change: From conserving vital places to shifting values. Together these create pathways to just and sustainable futures. Learn more: IPBES Transformative Change Assessment: Chapter 5. Realizing a sustainable world for nature and people: transformative strategies, actions and roles for all

As indicated in the illustration below, session 21 focuses mainly on strategies:

1: Conserve and regenerate places of value to nature and people.
5: Shift views and values to recognize human-nature interconnectedness