NBS strategies and implementation plans
LAND4CLIMATE team developed deliverable 4.1 which sets out strategies and implementation plans for Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in six European Front-Running Regions: Euskirchen (Germany), Lafnitz (Austria), Upper Timiș (Romania), Krásná Lípa/ Bohemian Switzerland (Czech Republic), Roňava River (Slovakia) and the Delta Po (Italy). The objective of this work is to demonstrate how NBS can be strategically designed, adapted to local conditions and implemented in practice, with a particular focus on the integration of private land into systemic climate adaptation efforts.
The analysis shows that each region faces distinct climate risks, from floods, droughts and heat-waves to biodiversity loss, soil erosion and coastal hazards. In response, context-specific "no-regret" measures are considered and developed like tiny forests in urban Germany, agroforestry measures in Austria, reforestation in Romania, small retention ponds in the Czech Republic, water retention ponds in Slovakia and dune restoration in Italy. These interventions are selected not only for climate hazard-reduction potential but also for their multifunctionality, delivering co-benefits such as biodiversity enhancement, carbon sequestration, soil fertility, recreational opportunities and improved community well-being.
The main framework across all regions is the central role of private land. While public land offers opportunities for pilots and demonstration sites, systemic resilience cannot be achieved without the active involvement of private landowners, who own the majority of land in Europe. However, engaging them remains a challenge due to fragmented ownership, opportunity costs, competing economic interests and complex regulatory environments. Lessons from the strategies highlight that trust-building, voluntary agreements and co-design processes are essential to overcome resistance. Clear demonstration of benefits for landowners, alignment with agricultural subsidy schemes and adaptation policies and transparent, participatory governance frameworks all proved decisive for legitimacy and long-term success.
The deliverable also emphasizes the importance of embedding monitoring, evaluation and learning into implementation planning, even in projects with limited budget. By tracking both ecological and socio-economic indicators, regions can adaptively manage interventions, strengthen legitimacy and build an evidence base for replication. Cross-regional learning and knowledge exchange are equally vital, ensuring that approaches developed in front-running regions can inspire and guide replicating regions across Europe.
Overall, Deliverable 4.1 demonstrates that NBS are not isolated technical interventions but comprehensive, systemic approaches that integrate ecological restoration, social engagement and governance innovation. Through inclusive participation, policy alignment and strategic investment in capacity-building, NBS can progress from small-scale pilots to transformative, landscape-scale solutions. In doing so, they contribute not only to climate resilience but also to long-term ecological sustainability and the creation of stronger, more resilient communities across Europe.