IUCN Global Standard for Nature Based Solutions

As NbS enters into policy and is adopted by projects on the ground there is a pressing
need for greater clarity and precision of what the concept entails and what is required
for it to be deployed successfully. Without this, the application of NbS could result in
inconsistent and ungrounded applications. The Standard, therefore, also provides a
systematic learning framework so that lessons can improve and evolve the applications,
leading to greater confidence in NbS among decision makers. Similarly, in the absence
of such a Standard, NbS may remain a general concept, only marginally contributing to
the pressing sustainability needs and not realising its full potential. Consequently, the
Standard provides an opportunity to create a global user community that helps guide
implementation on the ground, accelerate policy development, and create conservation
science on NbS. Through the Standard, NbS will be based on a common understanding
of its interpretation and a shared vision for a just and sustainable world