Developing Nature-Based Solutions in Wales
Introduction Nature-based solutions are actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural and modified ecosystems that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously benefiting people and nature.
Nature-based Solutions | IUCN
This report outlines the findings of a workshop held at Swansea University with representatives from academica, government and third sector organisations. It followed the launch of the author’s publication on Local Authorities and Sustainable Peatland Management . Sustainable peatland management including peatland restoration is a form of ‘nature-based solution’ that can provide many benefits to society in adressing the climate and nature crises and contributing to the development of the well-being of the people of Wales. Having brought together so many knowledgeable individuals it seemed like a good opportunity to explore wider issues with respect to the development of ‘nature-based solutions in Wales’. Nature-based solutions (NBS) is a term that is widely used but often ill defined. During the workshop we used the definition provided by the IUCN above to create a focus for discussions. The issues discussed included the knowledge and experience of participants in developing nature-based solutions in Wales, barriers to this work and future possibilities for action.
Where are we now in developing nature-based solutions in Wales?
In this session participants discussed their experiences and knowledge about ‘nature-based solutions’ in Wales, the problems they are designed to solve and who is involved.
Participants noted that to a large extent NBS is a description of what nature conservation has been doing for many years. It was also noted that NBS focus on custodianship of land and localised solutions to environmental problems. Some examples given included, tree planting, rewetting peatlands, restoring wildflower meadows, rewilding, variation in crop rotation, grassland management such as conservation grazing, access to green spaces, and community engagement with biodiversity. It was also noted that NBS can include, what are more commonly referred to as, green infrastructure developments in an urban environment. This includes, for example, green walls, green roofs, rain gardens and sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDs). The discussions also referred to the kind of problems NBS are designed to address. Some examples were habitat fragmentation, reversing species decline, flood control, erosion control, pollution remediation, water quality, soil health and invasive species.
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