The right fit: Acceptance of nature-based solutions across European cities

Abstract

European cities consistently seek to improve urban environments for their residents, yet often struggle to find solutions to address urban issues while engaging citizens. The European Union funds research and innovation projects proposing nature-based solutions to address climate change, biodiversity, human health and wellbeing in cities under the Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe programs. The presented research from the project UPSURGE is based on a survey of 5,990 urban residents in 6 European countries. The study focuses on the planning phase of nature-based solutions in cities, in which trade-offs have to be made between different options, such as the design, effectiveness, financial contributions from residents or participatory options. Based on an innovative survey including a choice experiment, the aim is to assist public participation processes in various countries, help planning teams define priorities and design governance measures which ensure long-term dedication to development plans. The results reflect respective exposure to climate change across the continent; such as Greek respondents being more affected by high temperatures compared to those from the United Kingdom. However, the study also revealed different preferences in regard to a participatory planning process, willingness to pay and importance of biodiversity.