Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in China: implementation and practice modes

Abstract Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are innovative strategies that harness natural processes and ecosystems to address a spectrum of environmental and societal challenges in a cost-effective manner. Although global interest in NbS is increasing, empirical research on their practical implementation within the Chinese context is scarce. This study introduces a comprehensive paradigm and a practice analysis framework aimed at quantitatively evaluating the prevalence and operational modalities of NbS initiatives in China from 2021 to 2023. Through a systematic analysis of 168 NbS cases, we identified four predominant practice modes: government-led initiatives, local government-led projects with diversified funding, multi-stakeholder engagement models, and traditional government-led ecological practices. Our findings reveal that the number of NbS initiatives in China significantly exceeds those documented on the international stage, underscoring the significant untapped potential of NbS within the nation. The vast majority of these initiatives (96%) tackle multiple societal challenges, with 75.60% successfully achieving social, economic, and environmental benefits, thereby validating their holistic efficacy. While government-led initiatives constitute the majority of NbS implementation (77.38%), there is a notable degree of stakeholder involvement (79.76%), suggesting a collaborative approach that bolsters the legitimacy and sustainability of these projects. For local practitioners, we recommend the integration of NbS into ongoing ecological practices, advocating for a synergistic approach that combines top-down and bottom-up strategies to maximize potential in tackling complex challenges. For future NbS endeavors, it is imperative to foster context-specific concepts that are attuned to local conditions and needs, thereby ensuring the maximization of effectiveness and benefits.