Speaker
Description
Over the last few decades, there has been a significant surge in academic studies on nature-based solutions (NBS), driven by the urgent need for transformative action to address planetary crises such as climate change and ecological degradation. Yet, what is meant by nature in NBS research? While definitions of NBS are commonly referenced in the literature, the concept of “nature” itself is rarely interrogated. This article explores the diverse ideas of nature embedded in NBS discourses within urban planning, arguing that unpacking these connotations is essential for the development of actions that are context-sensitive and positive for both humans and non-humans alike. The findings reveal that “nature” is often used abstractly or represented through proxies such as ecosystem services or biodiversity. Although the place-specificity of NBS is acknowledged, local definitions and culturally embedded values of nature remain underexplored, which risks undermining the long-term adoption and effectiveness of NBS. The article also shows what values of nature are present and how NBS can be a new instrument for enhancing human-nature relationships. It concludes that critically examining and embracing the often-divergent meanings of nature is vital for advancing NBS research in planning theory and practice. By fostering a deeper understanding of human-nature relationships and incorporating plural definitions of nature, NBS initiatives can better promote sustainability, resilience, and environmental justice. Such efforts are pivotal for mainstreaming NBS and shaping equitable urban futures that are capable of addressing the intertwined challenges of climate change and ecological crises.
References
Dorst, H., van der Jagt, A., Raven, R., & Runhaar, H. (2019). Urban greening through nature-based solutions – Key characteristics of an emerging concept. Sustainable Cities and Society, 49
Eggermont, H., Balian, E., Azevedo, J. M. N., Beumer, V., Brodin, T., Claudet, J., Fady, B., Grube, M., Keune, H., Lamarque, P., Reuter, K., Smith, M., Van Ham, C., Weisser, W. W., & Le Roux, X. (2015). Nature-based solutions: New influence for environmental management and research in Europe. GAIA, 24(4), 243–248
Kabisch, N., Frantzeskaki, N., Pauleit, S., Naumann, S., Davis, M., Artmann, M., Haase, D., Knapp, S., Korn, H., Stadler, J., Zaunberger, K., & Bonn, A. (2016). Nature- based solutions to climate change mitigation and adaptation in urban areas: Perspectives on indicators, knowledge gaps, barriers, and opportunities for action. Ecology and Society, 21(2).
Williams, R. (1980). Ideas of Nature. In R. Williams (Ed.), Problems in Materialism and Culture Verso.
| Keywords | nature; nature-based solutions; urban planning; climate adaptation |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | No |
