Topic.

Nature-based Solutions

Nature-based solutions use natural systems to address water-related risks and development challenges. Rather than relying solely on engineered infrastructure, they work with ecosystems to manage floods, droughts, water quality, and climate impacts while delivering benefits for biodiversity and livelihoods.

Governance barriers to scaling nature-based solutions

The challenge is not a lack of evidence, but a lack of governance. Nature-based solutions are often sidelined in planning and investment decisions, treated as add-ons rather than core components of water and climate strategies. Fragmented policies, short-term financing, and sector-based decision-making make it difficult to scale solutions that depend on coordination across land, water, and environmental systems.

How SIWI contributes

SIWI supports the governance conditions that allow nature-based solutions to be implemented and sustained. We support policy frameworks and decision-making processes that integrate ecosystem functions into water and climate planning, and that align investments, institutions, and incentives across sectors. Through dialogue and knowledge exchange, SIWI helps connect water governance with biodiversity, land-use, and climate agendas.

What embedding nature in water governance enables

By strengthening governance for nature-based solutions, SIWI helps shift them from isolated projects to strategic approaches. Embedding nature into water decision-making supports more resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable responses to climate and water challenges.

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