Assessing nature-based solutions for transformative change

•A framework to assess transformative change with NbS•Ecological and social elements underpin NbS potential•NbS can foster of social-ecological systems•Values, knowledge, community engagement, nature management The global environmental crisis demands approaches toward sustainability. Nature-based solutions (NbS) resonate strongly in science practice, but their capacity deliver has not been assessed. Here, we provide a conceptual under lens operationalize it through dataset 93 implemented mountain regions globally. majority assessed combine ecological potential change. These include various human values about knowledge types, engagement processes, practices such as restoration, ecosystem monitoring, protection. We also found evidence that contribute sustainable trajectories. call for further research on practice supports the monitoring evaluation ground. Global sustainability targets demand changes. are gaining traction policy, remains unexplored. evaluate how apply from systems (SES). serves what may catalyze change, occurs, its outcomes are. Our results show much “people based” “nature based.” Most based four transformation potential: nature's values, practices. confirm observed changes non-sustainable trajectories SES. illustrate components our novel classification NbS. provides key assessing effectiveness allows tracking long-term processes. Transformative context refers profound fundamental alterations interactions way sustains Earth's biophysical systems, while meeting needs.1Feola G. Societal response change: review emerging concepts.Ambio. 2015; 44: 376-390Google Scholar, 2Gillard R. Gouldson A. Paavola J. Van Alstine Transformational responses climate beyond perspective mitigation adaptation.Wires Clim. Change. 2016; 7: 251-265Google 3Patterson Schulz K. Vervoort Der Hel S. Widerberg O. Adler C. Hulbert M. 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Andes contains most reported (18%) followed Himalayas (11%). total 78% was located upper- lower-middle income 1B). addressed degradation (75%), (68%), poor (65%), (48%), highlighting wide range 1C). common specific were forest (53%), loss (47%), (39%), lack public decision-makers’ awareness alternative opportunities (35%), participation access funding (31%), drought (31%) 1D). contained three spheres (Box 1; Table 1). frequent belonged personal sphere, all framed within particular used certain types. next instruments (political sphere) (practical sphere). Within equally intrinsic instrumental ones, often combination, relational less frequent. type technical, then scientific, lay experiential, finally indigenous local knowledge. Among instruments, building. Finally, among practices, half biodiversity/ecosystems reduced pressure ecosystems. 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Discuss. 1-20Google ScholarThe numbers brackets percentage reviewed spheres, variables elements. only percentages >5%. Open table new tab outcomes. shows 76% 86% mentioned increase people. Regulating frequently material (45%) non-material (25%) contributions. In terms life, 87% some kind Those increased system's (52%), basic materials (37%), employment (32%). this section, Figure 2 relations between, one hand, framing intrinsic, instrumental, (elements and,