Implementing a nature-based solutions project
This phase is about applying countermeasures. Based on the challenges identified during the PLAN phase, a set of representative key performance indicators are adopted in the DO phase to track the progress towards the goals. During this phase, nature-based solutions are implemented and the monitoring strategy is defined.
A summary of all key resources for the DO phase can be downloaded here.
Relevant knowledge resources for this phase
Business models for NBS
Each NBS project needs a sound business model which highlights the value chain, main stakeholders and beneficiaries, financial flows and financing options, as well as clear responsibilities and tasks. In this section, you can find insights into approaches for NBS business model development, examples from the UNaLab pilot projects, as well as an adapted Business Model Canvas template.
Public procurement and financing of nature-based solutions
Many public authorities face difficulties in using public procurement to implement nature-based solutions projects in their cities. Furthermore, alternative financing options are needed to realize NBS projects. These recommendations and findings may help public authorities to explore alternative financing strategies and adapt their procurement processes to procure NBS more effectively.
Implementation of nature-based solutions
Developing, executing and evaluating nature-based solutions can be challenging and practitioners may face several barriers and questions along the way. This handbook aims to provide the key messages and outcomes of the NBS implementation process generated within the UNaLab project, from co-identification of challenges and NBS co-creation via co-monitoring to co-maintenance and evaluating the impacts of NBS interventions.
Relevant tools for this phase
Open Nature Innovation Arena
The Open Nature Innovation Arena (ONIA) is an online collaboration environment ensuring active stakeholder participation in bottom-up innovation processes and decision-making. It allows stakeholders to collectively discuss and identify issues or concerns affecting the quality of life in the city and collaborate to propose possible ideas of solution.
NBS Simulation Visualisation Tool
The NBS Simulation and Visualisation Tool is a user interface for the Systemic Decision Support Tool (SDST). The SDST allows to assess, ex-ante, the direct and indirect impacts of NBS measures (individual NBS) and strategies (suites of NBS) on urban heat and air quality, flooding and water quality, and sprawl, gentrification and real-estate valuation. Follow the link below to visit running versions from the UNaLab Front-Runner cities, or take a look at the SDST Practicioners' User Guide for Municipalities to learn more about the set-up and use.
City Performance Monitor
The City Performance Monitor (CPM) is the performance analytics and monitoring tool used by the UNaLab project cities. It increases stakeholder and citizen awareness of urban conditions through an easy-to-understand representation of the effectiveness of the nature-based solutions implemented in the city using social, environmental and economic performance indicators.
UNaLab city stories
NBS demonstrations in the UNaLab front-runner cities
The three UNaLab front-runner cities Tampere (FI), Eindhoven (NL) and Genova (IT) are all facing a number of climate- and water-related challenges linked to the impacts of climate change and rapid urbanisation. Identified challenges range from flooding and heat stress to pollution, lack of accessible green spaces and biodiversity loss. All three cities have established Urban Living Lab demonstration areas for the experimentation, demonstration and evaluation of a variety of different nature-based solutions that address local urban challenges, while collecting evidence for their environmental, social and economic benefits.
Genova's NBS demonstrations
Genova faces numerous environmental challenges related to extreme weather conditions such as water management issues, heat stress, and water and air pollution. The city has implemented a new urban park, which welcomes green areas along with bioswales, infiltration basins and rain gardens to improve water management and quality on site.
Tampere's NBS demonstrations
With flooding and storm water management constituting critical issues to the city, Tampere has implemented several nature-based storm water structures such as retention ponds, biofilters and alluvial meadows to complement existing blue and green infrastructure in the city. The city has also installed a green wall and a biofilter to treat contaminated water.
Eindhoven's NBS demonstrations
Eindhoven faces several climate-related challenges, including flooding, urban heat stress, air pollution and lower quality of life. The city has therefore implemented green spaces and structures in several areas within the city centre, which were previously completely paved. Green façades and a green roof have also been installed and a watercourse is being daylighted.