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Mapping the effectiveness of nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation
Alexandre Chausson1, Beth Turner1, Dan Seddon1
1Nature-based Solutions Initiative, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
Global Change Biology
|September 9, 2020
Summary
Nature-based solutions (NbS) effectively address climate change impacts, showing more synergies than trade-offs. However, evidence gaps and geographic biases hinder global resilience efforts.
Area of Science:
- Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
- Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity
- Environmental Policy and Governance
Background:
- Nature-based solutions (NbS) are gaining political momentum for climate change adaptation.
- Translating NbS intentions into evidence-based, actionable strategies remains a challenge.
- A robust evidence base is crucial for effective NbS policy and implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically map global evidence on the effectiveness of nature-based interventions for climate change impacts.
- To identify synergies and trade-offs associated with different types of NbS.
- To highlight evidence gaps and biases in NbS research.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a global systematic map of scientific literature on nature-based interventions.
- Analyzed evidence on the effectiveness of interventions in natural, semi-natural, and created ecosystems.
- Assessed reported impacts on climate change, hydrometeorological hazards, and broader outcomes.
Main Results:
- Most interventions in natural/semi-natural ecosystems ameliorated climate impacts.
- Created ecosystem interventions (e.g., afforestation) showed trade-offs, like reduced water availability.
- NbS generally demonstrated more synergies than trade-offs and were as effective or more so than alternatives.
Conclusions:
- Strengthening the evidence base for NbS is imperative for global climate resilience.
- Addressing evidence gaps, particularly regarding cost-effectiveness and integrated assessments, is critical.
- Overcoming geographic biases in research is necessary to support vulnerable communities in the Global South.
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