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Rethinking Nature-Based Solutions: Unintended Consequences, Ancient Wisdom, and the Limits of Nature

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  • Marianna Olivadese

    (Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin, 42, 40127 Bologna, Italy)

Abstract

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) have emerged as an influential framework in climate and water governance, promoted as cost-effective, resilient, and ecologically sound responses to environmental degradation. This interdisciplinary review critically examines the conceptual foundations, governance models, and systemic risks associated with NbS in urban and coastal water management. While NbS are often presented as sustainable and multifunctional alternatives to grey infrastructure, the literature reveals recurring vulnerabilities—ranging from ecological side effects to socio-political inequities and epistemological overconfidence. Drawing on contemporary case studies and classical environmental thought—from authors such as Virgil, Lucretius, and Seneca—the paper challenges the prevailing assumption that nature-based interventions are inherently beneficial or resilient. Instead, it argues for a reflexive and context-sensitive approach to NbS, one that integrates historical awareness, ethical reflection, and adaptive governance. The review proposes a typology of systemic risks, synthesizes unintended consequences across global examples, and calls for greater integration of environmental humanities into NbS research and policy design.

Suggested Citation

  • Marianna Olivadese, 2025. "Rethinking Nature-Based Solutions: Unintended Consequences, Ancient Wisdom, and the Limits of Nature," Land, MDPI, vol. 14(6), pages 1-14, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:14:y:2025:i:6:p:1272-:d:1678404
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Lei Li & Ali Cheshmehzangi & Faith Ka Shun Chan & Christopher D. Ives, 2021. "Mapping the Research Landscape of Nature-Based Solutions in Urbanism," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(7), pages 1-41, April.
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    4. Diana Dushkova & Dagmar Haase, 2020. "Not Simply Green: Nature-Based Solutions as a Concept and Practical Approach for Sustainability Studies and Planning Agendas in Cities," Land, MDPI, vol. 9(1), pages 1-37, January.
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    6. Hanson, Helena I. & Wickenberg, Björn & Alkan Olsson, Johanna, 2020. "Working on the boundaries—How do science use and interpret the nature-based solution concept?," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 90(C).
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