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A decade of climate shifts and extreme events has reshaped our world, forcing local and regional governments to adapt and evolve. But how have they tackled immediate crises and long-term challenges? Are there valuable lessons we can glean from their governance solutions? The vibrant discussion at this EURESFO session underscored the pivotal role of #NatureBasedSolutions (NbS) in addressing our evolving climate challenges, highlighting the need for cooperation between people and nature.

Once again, CLEVER Cities could showcase how NbS stands as a beacon of sustainability across ecological, social and economic dimensions within urban landscapes. As a special example from the CLEVER Regional Solutions' Catalog, which contains different approaches and examples for the implementation of NbS, London’s co-creation approach was presented by Doris Knoblauch, Ecologic Institute Berlin: residents in the relevant district of Thamesmead were recruited, trained in a wide range of areas, and subsequently took on expert tasks in the co-design of the NbS.

“This approach is truly inspiring, because this is what truly would include the local community and where they work as multiplayers in their region” - Doris Knoblauch. 

This involves the general public, encourages the feeling of co-determination and consequently also the interest in wanting to participate. This promotes acceptance and understanding as well as the spread of NbS.

So, are we ready to unleash Nature’s full potential? Definitely, but to further expand NbS implementation, it is crucial that we learn from one another and establish standards that incorporate local knowledge. This enables the sustainable shaping and monitoring of NbS success. However, flexibility is equally vital. As Dario Esposito, Vice Chair CEN/TC 465, aptly puts it: "It isn't about imposing rigid rules but capturing the foundational elements of NbS while considering local factors. Silos aren't out there in reality; we are the ones creating them. We should try to be more flexible and see problems from multiple perspectives."