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European Research Executive Agency

Under Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe, the European Commission funds research and innovation projects that propose nature-based solutions (NBS) to fight climate change and biodiversity loss, while improving our health and creating jobs.

The Commission defines nature-based solutions as “Solutions that are inspired and supported by nature, which are cost-effective, simultaneously provide environmental, social and economic benefits and help build resilience. Such solutions bring more, and more diverse, nature and natural features and processes into cities, landscapes and seascapes, through locally adapted, resource-efficient and systemic interventions.”

Nature-based solutions must therefore benefit biodiversity and support the delivery of a range of ecosystem services.

Cover of "Nature-based solutions" publication
  • General publications
  • 7 December 2023
Nature-based solutions

EU-funded NBS R&I projects tackle the climate and biodiversity crises

Discover 76 Horizon NBS projects that focus on various themes, such as climate resilience, water security, nature protection and restoration, social inclusion and co-governance, etc. in urban, freshwater, marine and coastal ecosystems and beyond.

Find out more:

EU research and innovation in natured-based solutions

Nature-based solutions task forces

Network Nature: a resource for the nature-based solutions community, creating opportunities for local, regional and international cooperation to maximise the impact and spread of nature-based solutions. 

Evaluating the impact of nature-based solutions - A handbook for practitioners

Evaluating the impact of nature-based solutions - Appendix of methods

Evaluating the impact of nature-based solutions - A summary for policy makers

Nature-based solutions: state of the art in EU-funded projects

Public procurement of nature-based solutions

EU Repository of nature-based solutions - case studies

The vital role of nature-based solutions in a nature positive economy

Investing in nature-based solutions

Harnessing the power of collaboration for nature-based solutions

Guidelines for co-creation and co-governance of nature-based solutions