IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions

BACKGROUND

This manual from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) contains a framework for Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in terms of its verification, design and scaling up. It provides answers on key questions on NbS:  why there is a need for the standard, what does the standard do, who can use the standard, and how can the standard be used. More importantly, it highlights the importance of working with nature and its immense potential of addressing a plethora of societal changes through initiatives that “protect, manage, and restore the environment.”

CONCLUSIONS & TAKEAWAYS

The IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions consists of 8 Criteria and 28 Indicators. The 8 Criteria of NbS are as follows: i) It effectively addresses societal challenges that are identified through the process of inclusive consultation; ii) Its design is informed by scale that is not limited to the geographic perspective but includes the economy, society and ecosystems; iii) It results in a positive impacts (net gain) to biodiversity and ecosystem health and integrity; iv) It is economically viable and considers sustainability to prevent NbS projects from being short term); v) It is based on a governance process that is inclusive, participatory and upholds the rights of Indigenous Peoples; vi) It equitably balances trade-offs between providing multiple co-benefits and achieving its goals; vii) It is managed adaptively and is evidence-based; and viii) It is mainstreamed within an applicable jurisdictional context. Case studies from the ground are included under each criterion.