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Nature-based Solutions for Major Societal Challenges
Introduction
Preamble
Nature-based solutions (NbS) harness the power of nature to benefit both people and biodiversity and are increasingly recognised as a sustainable and pragmatic approach to address societal challenges. In the last decade, the concept of NbS has gained global momentum in the scientific community and the policy arena. This e-study introduces the concept of NbS and illustrates its application through some examples around the world. The e-study is especially suitable for 1) Land, property and habitat managers who would like to understand the NbS concept and adopt it in their projects; 2) Public and private policy-makers who want to understand the NbS principles and policy instruments for formulating better policies and supportive measures; and 3) Students and teachers of architecture, planning and design, nature conservation and built and civil engineering courses who need online learning material for building a thorough understanding of NbS and its practical applications.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this e-study, readers should be able to:
- Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of the concept and importance of NbS;
- Acknowledge the principles and criteria of NbS and their applications in practice;
- Reflect on a range of policy instruments for NbS in local and overseas examples; and
- Relate NbS with the overarching sustainable development objectives of their own cities.
Continue to 'Session 1: Nature-based Solutions and Their Importance'
© 2026 Centre for Civil Society and Governance at The University of Hong Kong
Except where otherwise noted, contents of this e-study is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 License.
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