EU Research and Innovation on Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) aim to position the EU as leader in 'Innovating with nature' for more sustainable and resilient societies. Nature-based solutions to societal challenges can be defined as living solutions that are inspired and supported by nature, which are cost-effective, simultaneously provide environmental, social and economic benefits and help build resilience and adapt to climate change.
This Research and Innovation agenda is implemented through Horizon 2020, the EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, but also through other means to enhance the awareness and engagement of end-users, stir the supply and demand towards the market and develop an EU-wide knowledge base on NBS.
More information and definitions of nature based solutions and other terms.
Case Studies
The EU-wide knowledge base on NBS can certainly benefit from already existing examples across the EU. In fact, many European cities and regions have undertaken NBS-inspired actions to tackle a series of societal challenges through the provision of key ecosystem services.
This collection of case studies has been compiled by DG Research and Innovation at the European Commission from publicly available information and cross-checked by city administrations. It provides examples of the multiple benefits delivered by NBS. In doing so, it is a first step and a reference tool for the creation of an EU-wide NBS knowledge repository. This constitutes a tool for the dissemination of knowledge on NBS effectiveness (e.g. multiple benefits, returns of investment and development opportunities), which may in turn help the future uptake of NBS across the EU.
Further information
For more information visit the DG Research and Innovation page on Nature-Based Solutions
DG RTD, Unit B3 – Climate & Planetary Boundaries
RTD-ENV-NATURE-BASED-SOLUTIONS@ec.europa.eu
Disclaimer: the content of the case studies does not represent the official position of the European Commission
