A Comprehensive Review of Nature-Based Solutions: Current status and future research

Abstract

Climate change and the rapid development of cities have brought considerable challenges to the sustainable development of urban and rural areas, and using nature-based solutions to strengthen ecosystems' resilience and response capacity has become a consensus strategy. Natural solutions are the collective name for all solutions that increase the city's resilience while benefiting the environment and humanity. To deepen the theoretical research and practical development of NBS, I reviewed 87 papers on NBS through the Web of Science database. The study found that NBS-related research mostly focuses on five aspects: Concept of ideas, applied technology, implementation guidelines, performance evaluation and platform building. Currently, the emphasis is predominantly on ideas and platform development in developed countries. While the other three domains were also explored, they primarily adhere to conventional methodologies and content within the NBS context. While NBS research covered many areas and boasts an integrative, collaborative approach, it remained fragmented and lacked a cohesive system. On this basis, I proposed a systematic framework to strengthen the systematicity of the NBS system, give full play to the unique advantages of NBS as a comprehensive concept and promote the specific implementation and development of NBS. I examined NBS's progression and benefits, providing a thorough insight into its significance in sustainable urban development. The research introduced a cohesive framework by elucidating NBS's foundational concepts guiding subsequent inquiries. Such findings are pivotal for facilitating informed strategies and enhancing resilience to climate adversities, underscoring a comprehensive approach to sustainability.