Nature-based Solutions are means to protect, restore and enhance ecosystems and their services
Promoted by UNEP as “the best way to achieve human well-being, tackle climate change and protect our living planet”, Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are able to contribute to multiple goals at the same time, such as climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, Land Degradation Neutrality, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Action is needed for people, nature and economies
The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) is a strategic process that aims to make people, places, ecosystems and economies more resilient to climate change impacts by analysing current and future climatic hazards, as well as assessing related exposure and vulnerabilities. This provides a basis for identifying and prioritizing adaptation options.
Nature-based Solutions should be put at the centre of national development, disaster and climate strategies
NAPs provide adequate room for countries to incorporate climate change adaptation strategies into their decision-making, planning, and budgeting. They also represent an important opportunity to upscale and mainstream NbS for a more sustainable future.
Nature-based Solutions in National Adaptation Plans are essential for healthy ecosystems
Through integrating them into NAPs, NbS implementation can be reinforced at the country level to accelerate the restoration and conservation of ecosystems. This is instrumental for ensuring the good functioning of ecosystems and the provision of ecosystem services, which in turn heavily contribute to people’s well-being and their ability to adapt to climate change.
The NAP process involves planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation
Each of these stages provides important opportunities to apply an ecosystem lens and integrate NbS. As such, NbS should be considered vital adaptation strategies during the planning phase. During the implementation stage, NbS can be fleshed out in detail so the necessary resources can be allocated. Lastly, during the monitoring and evaluation stage, progress, results and lessons from applying NbS should be tracked and reported so best practices can be shared and replicated.
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