Nature-Based Solutions (NBS)
Explore the methodology for assessing and implementing Mission Relevant Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in the Danube River Basin. Click on the sections below to learn more.
Purpose
The methodology serves two primary objectives:
- Identify best practices from existing and completed projects.
- Provide a framework for developing future NBS projects and interventions.
Definition of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS)
NBS are solutions inspired and supported by nature, offering environmental, social, and economic benefits. They aim to:
- Address environmental challenges.
- Enhance human well-being.
- Be cost-effective and resource-efficient.
According to the European Commission, NBS should benefit biodiversity and support the delivery of a range of ecosystem services.
Key Characteristics of NBS
- Contribute to solving environmental, ecosystem, and biodiversity problems.
- Simultaneously enhance human well-being.
- Be inspired and supported by nature.
- Utilize green and blue infrastructure; hybrid solutions may be acceptable.
Methodology Overview
The methodology involves:
- Developing criteria to assess whether restoration projects qualify as NBS.
- Creating a guide for planning and implementing future NBS projects in the Danube River Basin.
Key Goals
- Best Practices Identification: Assess completed or planned restoration projects to see if they meet NBS criteria.
- Guide for New Projects: Provide a roadmap for planning and executing NBS projects, including practical steps for new interventions.
Preparatory Phase
- Subphase 1: Initial NBS assessment to evaluate project alignment with NBS.
- Subphase 2: Expert-driven project validation with defined indicators and monitoring plans.
- Subphase 3: Creation of a conceptual project design.
Interactive NBS Flowchart
Report about problem(s) and restoration needs.
Conceptual solution of the NBS project. first sketch. Invitation to meeting. List of invited.
Report of the Project initiation meeting
The initiators and stakeholders consider comments, remarks, ideas presented and evaluate whether the Project proposal can be validated as NBS and be performed. They decide at the end of the meeting, or afterward. The result can be:
Work groups and Overall Citizens and Stakeholders Engagement Plan
Report on knowledge and innovation study. Report on redefined challenges.
Evaluating comments and remarks, report on need, brefining (if applicable), Final report on challenges.
Report on selected objectives
Novel Elements in Methodology
- Flowchart Framework: A flexible, easy-to-use step-by-step guide for NBS assessment.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Active involvement of citizens and stakeholders throughout all phases.
- Cost Reduction Strategies: Practical approaches for small-scale projects to limit expert involvement, relying on the deliverable for preliminary assessments.
- Use of Volunteers in Monitoring: Suggested to lower costs and boost community engagement.