This book provides a systematic review of nature-based solutions and
their potential to address current environmental challenges.
In the 21st century, society is faced by rapid urbanisation and
population growth, degradation and loss of natural capital and
associated ecosystem services, an increase in natural disaster risks,
and climate change. With growing recognition of the need to work with
ecosystems to resolve these issues there is now a move towards
nature-based solutions, which involve utilising nature's ecosystem to
solve societal challenges while providing multiple co-benefits. This
book systematically reviews nature-based solutions from a public policy
angle, assessing policy developments which encourage the implementation
of nature-based solutions to address societal challenges while
simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits.
This includes enhancing sustainable urbanisation, restoring degraded
ecosystems, mitigating and adapting to climate change, and reducing
risks from natural disasters. While nature-based solutions can be
applied strategically and equitably to help societies address a variety
of climatic and non-climatic challenges, there is still a lack of
understanding on how best to implement them. The book concludes by
providing a best practice guide for those aiming to turn societal
challenges into opportunities.
This book will be of great interest to policymakers, practitioners and
researchers involved in nature-based solutions, sustainable urban
planning, environmental management, and sustainable development
generally.
