Causal Loop Diagrams for supporting Nature Based Solutions participatory design and performance assessment

Area of Science:

• Environmental science and policy
• Water resource management
• Climate change adaptation

Background:

• Nature-Based Solutions (NBSs) offer multifaceted benefits for climate adaptation and reducing water-related risks, surpassing traditional 'grey infrastructure'.
• Mainstreaming NBSs is hindered by socio-institutional barriers, including limited stakeholder engagement and awareness, rather than technical limitations.
• Innovative tools and participatory processes are crucial for effective NBS planning, design, implementation, and assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel approach to NBS design emphasizing early and continuous stakeholder involvement.
• To integrate stakeholder perspectives into the identification, modeling, and assessment of NBS benefits and co-benefits.
• To facilitate the selection of suitable NBSs by considering multiple impacts and trade-offs.

Main Methods:

• A multi-step methodology combining individual and participatory activities was implemented.
• Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) were utilized to model system dynamics and incorporate stakeholder views.
• CLDs were coupled with a Performance Matrix (Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis) and fuzzy logic for NBS assessment.

Main Results:

• Stakeholder inputs from institutional and non-institutional groups were integrated into the NBS assessment process.
• Comparative analysis identified benefits, co-benefits, trade-offs (e.g., agriculture vs. biodiversity), and potential side effects of different NBSs.
• The integrated approach facilitated the identification of suitable NBSs for the Balta Potelu Pond Area case study.

Conclusions:

• Early and inclusive stakeholder engagement is vital for overcoming barriers to NBS mainstreaming.
• The proposed methodology, combining CLDs and MCDA, effectively supports decision-making for NBS selection and implementation.
• This approach enhances the consideration of diverse impacts and stakeholder needs in water-related risk reduction and climate adaptation strategies.