Development and practices of nature-based solutions in China

Abstract

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) is a concept aims to address challenges related to human well-being, including human health, socio-economic development, and ecological security on both national and global scales. This concept was proposed against the backdrop of global climate change, ecological crises affecting humanity, and threats to sustainable development and it has been increasingly recognized and applied internationally over the past decade. The principle of NbS is reciprocity between humans and ecosystems, which is completely in line with the goals, systems, practices, and concepts guiding China's construction of ecological civilization. This paper clarifies concepts, evaluation criteria, and comprehensive benefits related to NbS, to trace the connection between NbS and both traditional and contemporary ecological civilization principles in China. By drawing valuable experience from NbS practices in China, it will focus on proposing policy and implementation suggestions to address challenges currently faced in NbS applications in China. This research will promote the research and practice of nature-based solutions in China. Meanwhile, provide novel perspectives and technologies for urban ecological design as well as sustainable development.