Nature-based solutions have beneficial effects on both people and the environment.

In contrast to purely technical solutions, such as removing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in geological reservoirs (carbon capture and storage), nature-based climate solutions offer the advantage of making a significant contribution to sustainable development. Healthy ecosystems provide a variety of important services, including local recreation, drinking water, the protection of biological diversity, and renewable resources such as wood. Nature conservation and climate protection are closely linked in such projects: a regenerative field enhances biodiversity, provides healthier food, and increases yield security. An intact forest offers recreational space, clean air, and responsible, sustainable timber management.

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How are nature-based solutions implemented and applied?

Nature-based solutions can be implemented in urban areas as well as in marine and terrestrial ecosystems [6]. There are two main approaches [7]:

1. Reduce or avoid CO₂ emissions
2. Removing CO₂ from the atmosphere

Protecting forests, mangroves, peat bogs or coral reefs falls into the first category. Protecting these ecosystems, which store large amounts of carbon, can help prevent the release of carbon into the atmosphere and ensures the functionality of existing habitats. Reforestation, the restoration of ecosystems or the transformation of forests into climate-stable mixed stocks are measures that contribute to the removal of CO₂ from the atmosphere and at the same time to intact, stable habitats.

Regenerative Agriculture is an example of a nature-based solution that helps both remove and reduce greenhouse gases. It not only promotes the binding of CO2 from the atmosphere in the soil, but also reduces emissions, for example through lower and more efficient fertilisation. Regenerative Agriculture also contributes to other benefits, such as higher soil fertility, improved soil water storage capacity, and greater biodiversity. Regenerative measures can promote climate-resilient crops, leading to secure returns for farmers and resilient supply chains for food companies. Here you can find out more about Regenerative Agriculture.

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Nature-based solutions receive government support worldwide

In recent years, the increasingly global community has recognised the relevance of healthy ecosystems for our society. Reports from organisations such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) have highlighted the potential of nature-based solutions. According to an IPBES assessment, these 37% of the mitigation measures required by 2030 could deliver the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. [4] Just recently, at COP27, Joe Biden announced a new roadmap for nature-based solutions that includes 25 billion dollars in infrastructure and climate financing to support projects in this area [5].

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The limits of nature-based solutions

Although nature-based solutions offer significant benefits, they should not be seen as the sole answer to the climate crisis. It is important to note that while they can make an important contribution to the solution, they should not distract attention from efforts to rapidly phase out fossil fuels and protect existing, intact ecosystems. [8]

For companies looking to support a nature-based climate project, it is crucial to consider potential risks and negative effects. In reforestation projects, for example, planting trees that are not native to the region could displace local species and therefore fail to benefit biodiversity. Additionally, the expansion of forestry could come at the expense of other indigenous ecosystems and local resources. Another risk is that projects may be implemented without the consent of the local population, particularly in areas where land ownership rights are not adequately protected. It is, therefore, essential that companies pay careful attention to planning and implementing nature-based climate projects, ensuring they involve local communities and minimise negative impacts.

In addition, it should be borne in mind that many nature-based solutions require ongoing management to ensure their long-term effectiveness. Some solutions may struggle to adapt to changing environmental conditions, which can affect their ability to sequester carbon. The durability of nature-based solutions is a critical factor that should always be considered, as the capacity of ecosystems to sequester carbon over the long term is more challenging to predict than that of technical solutions. [9]

There is a growing consensus that “green” (nature-based) and “gray” (technological) solutions must go hand in hand in tackling the climate crisis, as each type of solution has its own benefits and risks. [10]

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Take your company's sustainability strategy to the next level

No solution alone is perfect, but it is clear that investing in nature-based solutions allows companies to allocate key resources to initiatives that deliver both environmental and social benefits. A recent report from the World Economic Forum and Bain & Company recommends that companies invest primarily in high-quality, nature-based projects that support natural, species-rich ecosystems and local communities in the short term to complement their decarbonisation strategy. In the medium to long term, companies should also consider financing technological carbon dioxide removal projects with long-term storage to further reduce remaining emissions. [11]

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of the nature-based solution of Regenerative Agriculture for our ecosystems and how your company can support regional farmers, please feel free to contact us.

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Sources: [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6], [7], [8], [9], [10], [11]