Framing nature‐based solutions in Norwegian public media: A critical discourse analysis of public narratives

Abstract Nature‐based solutions (NbS) have become central to environmental governance. Yet, their societal legitimacy depends on how they are framed in public discourse. This study investigates how Norwegian media actors construct narratives around NbS, whose voices are amplified, and the extent to which plural and Indigenous epistemologies are represented. We conducted a critical discourse analysis of 57 articles published between 2018 and 2025 across five major Norwegian media outlets. Articles were coded abductively, drawing on typologies of values (instrumental, relational and intrinsic) and dimensions of environmental justice. The sample primarily included opinion pieces and expert contributions, most of which were authored by non‐journalist experts. Four dominant narratives emerged: (1) Nature as infrastructure , emphasising technical and cost‐effective climate services; (2) Win‐win optimism , framing NbS as universally beneficial; (3) Nature as relationship , depicting nature as a partner but remaining marginal; and (4) Commodification critiques , primarily in progressive outlets. In addition, we identified a patterned absence of Indigenous epistemologies , with Sámi perspectives almost entirely absent. Outlet‐specific patterns reflected editorial ideologies, with instrumental framings dominating across the corpus. Our findings highlight that Norwegian media discourses on NbS remain strongly anthropocentric, which may contribute to reinforcing perceptions of nature as a resource for human use and constrain transformative imaginaries. The limited representation of relational values and Indigenous knowledges could risk perpetuating epistemic injustices. We suggest reflexive and pluralistic media practices that move beyond narrow technocratic narratives to foster inclusive public conversations about nature, climate and justice. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.