Nature-based solutions (NbS) have emerged as a crucial concept for addressing socio-economic and environmental challenges. Recognized for their potential to enhance human well-being, ecosystem services, resilience, and biodiversity, NbS are increasingly incorporated into national climate and biodiversity policies, including Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs).
Additionally, NbS are explicitly reflected in the targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), emphasizing their role in mitigating climate change impacts and enhancing nature’s contributions to people.
But how are NbS defined and implemented? And what are safeguards to prevent adverse environmental and social impacts and ensure equitable outcomes?
The International Institute für Sustainable Development (IISD) in collaboration with GIZ and withthe support of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV) has developed a background note analyzing two key international standards and guidelines: the IUCN Global Standard for NbS and the CBD’s Voluntary Guidelines for the Design and Effective Implementation of Ecosystem-based Approaches for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction. It compares their principles, safeguards, and implementation requirements showing similarities, differences, and gaps, as well as the interrelationships and commonalities between the two international standards fostering a comprehensive understanding for effective and equitable NbS implementation.
Check out the recently published background note here.
