ICLEI Europe is partnering with local governments to create and implement nature-based solutions (NBS) projects and initiatives that further both human and environmental health and promote biodiversity. Examples include:
Born of a partnership between ICLEI offices worldwide and regional representatives, the UrbanByNature Programme (UbN) builds context-specific NBS capacity worldwide. Of particular utility is the series of place-based, step-wise, community-led webinars that feature local and external experts and can be viewed on demand.
Strategic and mutually beneficial global NBS partnerships resulted in the independent expert publication of the European Commission entitled “The vital role of nature-based solutions in a nature positive economy” to which ICLEI has greatly contributed. This report discusses the value of nature beyond its pure monetary contributions to society. Policy recommendations are available for local governments to pave their way towards a nature-positive economy.
Scotland, with ICLEI guidance, led a consultation process with sub-national governments around the world to brainstorm contributions to the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework and targets. The resulting Edinburgh Declaration highlights the vital role of sub-national governments and sets out their commitments in achieving post-2020 goals and targets.
The EU Horizon 2020 NBS project Connecting Nature, in which ICLEI played a pivotal role, helped lay the foundation for each of these achievements. Additional projects building on Connecting Nature’s legacy and particularly the UrbanByNature Programme include CLEVER Cities, CONEXUS, REGREEN, and NICE. View the Connecting Nature Resource Center to learn more.
Projects where ICLEI partners in such as proGIreg help GoGreenRoutes implement and inspect nature-based solutions to enhance well-being in cities. Further ICLEI coordinates NetworkNature an EU-funded service that supports the nature-based solutions community across Europe maximises impact by synergising efforts.
ICLEI members can gain expert insight into NBS and other topics by joining our upcoming Webinar series, which will feature ICLEI cities investing in NBS on Monday, Nov. 14th, 11:00-12:00 CET. Register now!