Abstract

Climate change, development in hazard-prone areas, and the loss of services provided by natural systems are increasing risks to people, infrastructure and economies. To manage these risks, we need to understand the performance of conventional or grey infrastructure and nature-based solutions (such as green infrastructure). 

Nature-based solutions are actions to protect, sustainably manage or restore natural or modified ecosystems. They can be used to address societal challenges, simultaneously providing benefits for people and the environment. 

Implementing nature-based solutions depends on the expertise, experience, and resources of a diversity of individuals and institutions. This report integrates academic and practitioner perspectives to evaluate the effectiveness of 23 nature-based solutions to address 7 hazards and provide 4 ecosystem services. It reflects inputs of representatives from 30 organizations, including actions by governmental, academic, civil society, and private sector institutions. The assessment began with a review of the academic literature, parallel review by practitioners, and collaborative synthesis of the two. 

It also provides recommendations, both to systematically consider nature-based solutions and to accelerate research, innovation and adaptive learning.