A conceptual model of the social–ecological system of nature-based solutions in urban environments

Abstract

This article provides a perspective on nature-based solutions. First, the argument is developed that nature-based solutions integrate social and ecological systems. Then, theoretical considerations relating to relational values, multifunctionality, transdisciplinarity, and polycentric governance are briefly outlined. Finally, a conceptual model of the social–ecological system of nature-based solutions is synthesised and presented. This conceptual model comprehensively defines the social and ecological external and internal systems that make up nature-based solutions, and identifies theoretical considerations that need to be addressed at different stages of their planning and implementation The model bridges the normative gaps of existing nature-based solution frameworks and could be used for consistent, comprehensive, and transferable comparisons internationally. The theoretical considerations addressed in this article inform practitioners, policymakers, and researchers about the essential components of nature-based solutions. The conceptual model can facilitate the identification of social and ecological interconnections within nature-based solutions and the range of stakeholders and disciplines involved.

Mapping the Research Landscape of Nature-Based Solutions in Urbanism

“…In fact, NBS still relying on further refined definition and deployment of ESS and UGI on the ground systematically in the urban context. Based on this, Tzoulas et al (2020) [117], who recognized the lacking of consensus in terms of conceptual links between these concepts (either too vague, broad, inconsistent, or missing), further compared NBS with other eight concepts based on six papers [4,7,11,35,116,118] to present the interdependence of human and nature and set a conceptual model of the social-ecological system of NBS in urban environments, which benefited the knowledge transfer at different scales and nations.…”

“…Specifically in the field of landscape planning education. Galan (2020) [119] argued the understanding and application of these concepts differed significantly in academic groups because of their heterogeneous origins. As a result, the synergistic and coordinated usage in this still faced semantic, grammatical, and operational challenges.…”

Going toward Resilience? Town Planning, Peri-Urban Landscapes, and the Expansion of Athens, Greece

“…Major efforts in Resilience Strategy for 2030 was given to the actions that may support climate change adaptation and increase of environmental protection, recognizing the leading role of Nature-Based Solutions in increasing the environmental quality and sustainability in urban and peri-urban contexts [70][71][72][73]. With regards to urban forest management [74], guidelines were more recently provided for managing environmental resources and increasing its protection, e.g., from wildfires [75] in Attica ( Figure 6).…”

Integration of Ecosystem Services in Strategic Environmental Assessment of a Peri-Urban Development Plan

“…GI provides an alternative to grey infrastructure, having many co-benefits for planners to foster sustainable urban land-use, to compensate for the negative effects of urban density, and to enhance human wellbeing [30,31]. GI has been defined as "a strategically planned network of natural and semi-natural areas with other environmental features designed and managed to deliver a wide range of ecosystem services" [15].…”

“…For example, we propose two types of green roofs considering the type of buildings. Mainly, we previously suggested the use of extensive green roofs for houses and intensive green roofs for schools, markets, and public buildings [30,58]. The use of scientific literature was important for setting human benefit and ecosystem services connected with the GI.…”