Nature-Based Solutions as a Tool in the New Circular Economic Model for Climate Change Adaptation

Abstract

While our modern global society enjoys the benefits of an economic growth that was never seen before, at the same time, it is facing the existential threat of climate change. We now realize that the linear economic model cannot sustain our life standards indefinitely. A new circular approach is already suggested that will adjust our priorities and re-orient future infrastructure investments. In this context, we look back to nature to find the solutions we need to increase the resiliency of our societies, to protect and restore the ecosystems, and to maintain the necessary economic growth without further undermining the planet’s boundaries. Nature-based solutions serve exactly this ambitious and multi-factorial purpose due to their inherent ability not only to tackle climate change but also to provide a series of ecosystems services and social benefits. This opinion paper discusses the potential of nature-based solutions to stimulate a circular model of economic growth, their contribution to new circular strategies for climate change adaptation, the various benefits of such concepts, and the key actions needed to increase the awareness and attract more investments on nature-based approaches in the near future.