Re-powering the Nature-Intensive Systems: Insights From Linking Nature-Based Solutions and Energy Transition

Abstract

Nature-based and energy transition strategies are amongst most considerable solutions that are gaining popularity in recent years, especially in global north. This review provides a new approach to link these apparently independent concepts to highlight the potentials of coupled systems. Exploring common boundary concepts such as energy infrastructure, natural capital, land sink, ecosystem services etc. in both energy and environmental geography fields can facilitate our understanding toward potential contributions of nature-based solutions and energy transition for efficiency and sustainability goals. The results of this review can help to further develop robust coupled systems to deal with urban societal and environmental challenges such as land and energy scarcity. This review presents a variety of theoretical foundations and the rationales behind nature-based solutions and energy transition including socio-technical transitions, socio-ecological-technological, land-energy transition, and circular economy scholarships. Finally, by proposing future research directions, the role of each boundary concept in coupled NbS-ET systems is shown.

The Use of Nature-Based Solutions in the Adaptation of Large Polish Cities to Climate Change and Energy Transformation: A Comparative Analysis

“…There is also a noticeable connection between NbSs, strengthening urban resilience, the challenge of sustainable development [29,30], and the use of new technologies in the context of the circular economy [31]. In recent years, some publications have also pointed to the links of NbSs with energy production and energy transition [32][33][34][35][36]. Such correlations, combined with other advantages of NbSs, generate multiple benefits for both the natural environment and the urban environment and the people who function in them [37].…”

Imagining a nature-based future for Europe in 2120 : nature-based solutions at the heart of a visionary approach for accelerating the transition to a climate resilient and nature-positive future

“…offshore wind parks, nature-inclusive solar farms combined with water storage and solar PV on smart blue-green roofs. [59] The European renewable energy network is based on a nature-positive approach that, where appropriate, includes the development of ecological corridors and flower-rich grasslands. In marine energy installations, artificial reefs made from recycled materials have enhanced breeding populations of fish, shellfish and crustaceans and have provided surfaces for algae and seaweed growth, with positive commercial spin-offs and contributions to the protein transition.…”