A Typology of Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Development: An Analysis of Form, Function, Nomenclature, and Associated Applications

Vidya Anderson and William A. Gough
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Vidya Anderson: Climate Laboratory, Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4, Canada
William A. Gough: Climate Laboratory, Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4, Canada

Land, 2022, vol. 11, issue 7, 1-22

Abstract: This study presents a typology of nature-based solutions (NbS), addressing the need for a standardized source of definitions and nomenclature, and to facilitate communication in this interdisciplinary field of theory and practice. Growing usage of the umbrella phrase ‘nature-based solutions’ has led to a broad inclusion of terms. With the diversity of terminology used, the full potential of NbS may be lost in the confusion of misapplied terms. Standardization and definition of commonly used nature-based nomenclature are necessary to facilitate communication in this rapidly expanding field. Through objective systemization of applications, functions, and benefits, NbS can be embraced as a standard intervention to address societal challenges and support achievement of the UN SDGs.

Keywords: forests; grasslands; green roofs; green walls; rain gardens; riparian buffer zones; sustainability; tree-based intercropping; vegetation; wetlands (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (7)

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