Linkages between the concept of nature-based solutions and the notion of landscape

Abstract

As the effects of Nature-based solutions (NBS) application are usually much broader than only the area under the project implementation, it is necessary to capture the impact on these actions of landscape as well as the influence of landscape type on the NBS effectiveness. The main aim of this study was to detect linkages between the operational of NBS and the landscape dimention, based on a systematic literature review. The results showed the existence of seven linkages: (1, 2) ‘input’ and ‘output’ resulting from the consideration of landscape as a scale of NBS implementation; (3, 4) ‘stimulator’ and ‘inspiration’ based on the contribution of landscape-based management to the implementation of NBS; (5) ‘co-beneficiary’ since the implementation of NBS affects aesthetic dimensions of landscape; (6) ‘tool’ as landscape-based indicators are used to assess the impacts of NBS; and (7) ‘foundation’ as health-supporting landscapes may be considered as a type of NBS action.

Riparian Forests as Nature-Based Solutions within the Mediterranean Context: A Biophysical and Economic Assessment for the Koiliaris River Watershed (Crete, Greece)

“…Our research provides additional inputs and arguments to accommodate forests within the Nexus framework, consistent with the idea that forest and landscape restoration is a promising strategy for improving the Nexus and contributing to sustainable development and resilience of socioecological systems [114]. However, since the Nexus can be seen as a step beyond silos planning toward a more holistic approach to planning [115] NBS cannot be effectively managed in isolation [31], they should rather be framed within planning strategies at a landscape scale or even beyond [116]. Though often covering a small proportion of agricultural landscapes, riparian forests nestled in crop-intensive areas can contribute remarkably to biodiversity and the support of several ecological processes as well as the supply of ecosystem services, thus ensuring multifunctional landscapes [76].…”

“…Our findings can also be considered vis-à-vis some recent and emerging policies addressing climate change and its impacts on socioecological systems. NBS is widely viewed as a means of achieving the objectives of existing and proposed European policies [116] that are conceptually and practically connected to the WEFE Nexus. These include, among others, the EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change [123], EU Water [124] and EU Floods Directives [125], EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 [126], and the EU Nature Restoration Law [127].…”