Nature-Based Solutions at the Climate-Biodiversity Interface: Practices and Prospects in Finnish Municipalities

Despite a persistent reliance on conventional grey infrastructure solutions, there is increasing recognition of the vital role of nature-inclusive urban planning in managing climate risks such as floods and heatwaves while simultaneously promoting biodiversity, human health, and well-being. This multifunctionality underscores nature's intrinsic importance, reframing it as a fundamental necessity for societies rather than just a "nice to have" within urban areas. Therefore, this study delves into urban nature practices and prospects within Finnish municipalities to provide holistic insights into the developments. Employing a mixed-method approach, utilizing an online questionnaire, the research reveals an increasing integration of nature-based solutions (NBS) in municipal planning, zoning, and construction practices across 13 municipalities. Moreover, urban nature is considered vital, even as critical infrastructure. The insights underscore the importance of consistency and precise indications for NBS in land-use planning. However, since NBS requires collaboration, differing knowledge, priorities, and perceptions of risks and opportunities can impede progress. The challenges are compounded by urban structures and historical processes. On the other hand, shortcomings in monitoring and evaluating NBS may hinder the identification of necessary enhancements and mainstreaming of successful solutions into practices. Meanwhile, clear goals with contextual indicators could enhance the tracking of NBS progress and deepen learning about the broader outcomes, thereby informing decision-making. Based on the insights and scholarly literature, overarching recommendations are discussed.
Nature-based Solutions (NBS) leverage natural processes to deliver societal benefits, including climate adaptation and mitigation, enhanced human health, and the promotion of biodiversity. For instance, urban green can cool the air, manage stormwater, and boost children's immunity all at once, which is crucial in urban areas where space is often limited. Indeed, nature is not merely a 'nice to have' in urban areas but crucial for addressing pressing societal challenges. This study examined urban planners' perspectives on NBS practices and prospects in 13 Finnish municipalities. The results indicate notable efforts to integrate NBS into urban planning, supported by municipal strategies and regulatory measures in zoning and construction. However, the need to enhance the knowledge base and planning methods is still evident, necessitating increased collaboration among various stakeholders. Furthermore, developing city-wide visions of desirability could streamline communication and address historical barriers and perceptions of risks and opportunities that may hinder progress. For instance, since the 1970s, there has been a tendency to artificially create urban nature, overlooking the importance of preserving and integrating more "wild nature" for ecological and health benefits. Additionally, densification combined with limited blue-green elements has posed challenges in current urban structures. Hence, integrating NBS would be essential in challenging areas, even as smaller-scale projects. Furthermore, critically reflecting on history to learn from it is crucial to prevent repeating mistakes. Moreover, while notable initiatives also exist, their successful implementation necessitates recognizing the diverse values inherent in urban nature to foster public and political support. NBS are not just about planting trees; they require understanding the diverse benefits and trade-offs to ensure effective and equitable development. Hence, this study underscores the importance o