Over recent years, nature-based solutions (NbS) have gained popularity as tools to ameliorate the effects of climate change, while slowing down the global warming process. More specifically, the potential of NbS has been explored in terms of meeting greenhouse gas emissions targets, and fostering climate change adaptation.

NbS are methods that use and enhance nature to improve social and environmental challenges. They involve several multifaceted actions, that work sustainably to restore and protect the natural environment while helping people. Therefore, these solutions are useful in climate change adaptation and mitigation. There are 3 main areas which NbS may target, namely reducing exposure, reducing sensitivity, and supporting adaptive capacity.

Reducing exposure refers to protecting areas from existing climate change effects. There is thus a perceived need to document and promote experiences related to NbS, and to apply these in different contexts.  

It is against this background that the "Handbook of Nature-Based Solutions to Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change" is being produced. The publication will showcase experiences related to NbS from around the world. In particular, it will gather examples of projects, studies and the latest thinking on NbS, which can serve the purpose of inspiring and fostering further works in this key area.

Thanks to its scope and thematic diversity, the book will be of special interest to representatives from government organisations, researchers and students from a wide range of natural and social sciences courses. It will also provide useful information to practitioners and representatives from non-governmental organisations.