As a NetworkNature partner, Biodiversa+ has expanded the Nature-based Solutions (NbS) research and innovation (R&I) database, offering valuable insights into how NbS funding is allocated across Europe.
First launched in 2021, the NbS projects database serves as a strategic resource for policymakers, funders, and research programmers. By mapping major NbS investments, it helps guide a more coordinated and impactful approach to NbS R&I funding.
What’s new?
We’ve significantly expanded the database, now featuring 471 projects and over €2 billion in funding, by:
- Adding recent projects: Incorporating the latest NbS initiatives funded by established programs like LIFE, Horizon 2020, and Interreg.
- Expanding sources: Including projects funded by key initiatives such as Horizon Europe, Water4All, the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership (SBEP), Driving Urban Transition (DUT), and EJP Soil.
How we built the database
Projects were selected based on NetworkNature’s NbS definition, emphasising biodiversity benefits, social and economic impact, and addressing societal challenges. Our methodology involved keyword searches, manual reviews, and detailed categorisation by typologies, approaches, ecosystems, and societal challenges.
Key trends
- Significant growth: The database reflects a substantial increase in NbS research activity, highlighting sustained investment since 2015. Biodiversa+ projects represent 10% of the total collected projects.
- Ecosystem coverage: While urban ecosystems remain prominent, we’re seeing a rise in projects addressing multiple environments. Biodiversa+ projects predominantly target croplands and coastal/marine ecosystems.
- Adopted approaches: Ecosystem-based approaches, especially in agriculture and forestry, are leading the way. Ecosystem restoration is also on the rise, while ecosystem protection is gaining traction, particularly in marine environments. Biodiversa+ projects favour ecological restoration and ecosystem-based agricultural management.
- Societal challenges: Climate resilience is a top societal challenge addressed, aligning with Biodiversa+ projects’ focus on food security and climate action. Other key challenges include economic opportunities and hazard management.
Annual moving average of funding (2023 is marked with hatching as its figures are influenced by the 2024 budget allocation, which are not complete for this year)
Temporal evolution of environments addressed by NbS projects from 2011 to 2024
Temporal evolution of approaches studied by NbS projects from 2011 to 2024
Temporal evolution of societal challenges addressed by NbS R&I projects from 2011 to 2024
For more details, read the full report and explore the database:
