Nature-based solutions to development and climate change challenges: understanding ecosystem-based adaptation approaches

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to climate- and development-related challenges have recently gained attention in development cooperation. This Working Paper focuses on nature-based solutions to climate change adaptation, also known as Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA). It provides an overview of selected lessons learnt from EbA in the context of development cooperation, with a particular emphasis on the opportunities and risks regarding poverty alleviation and rights. This Working Paper is based on a desk study of selected academic literature and policy- and project-related publications and reports. It has been prepared by DIIS as part of the project 'Research and Evaluation of Development Cooperation' with funding from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Working Paper seeks to generate learning for Danish development cooperation, including future programming under Denmark's 2021 development strategy, in which NbS approaches are emphasised. However, the paper can also be read as a general discussion of experiences with EbA in the development context.