Transformative adaptation through nature-based solutions: a comparative case study analysis in China, Italy, and Germany

• DOI: 10.1007/s10113-023-02066-7
• Publication Date: 2023-05-02T11:01:56Z
• Authors: Anna Scolobig; JoAnne Linnerooth...; Mark Pelling; Juliette G. C. Ma...; Teresa M. Deubelli; Wei Liu; Amy Oen
• Keywords: Transformative Learning

This paper explores how claims for transformative adaptation toward more equitable and sustainable societies can be assessed. We build on a theoretical framework describing as it manifests across four core elements of the public-sector lifecycle: vision, planning, institutional frameworks, interventions. For each element, we identify characteristics that help track transformative. Our purpose is to governance systems constrain or support choices thus enable targeted demonstrate test usefulness with reference three government-led projects nature-based solutions (NBS): river restoration (Germany), forest conservation (China), landslide risk reduction (Italy). Building desktop study open-ended interviews, our analysis adds evidence view transformation not an abrupt system change, but dynamic complex process evolves over time. While NBS cases fails fulfill all characteristics, there are important in their visions, There deficit, however, frameworks. The show commonalities multi-scale cross-sectoral (polycentric) collaboration well innovative processes inclusive stakeholder engagement; yet, these arrangements ad hoc, short-term, dependent local champions, lacking permanency needed upscaling. public sector, this result highlights potential establishing cross-competing priorities among agencies, formal mechanisms, new dedicated institutions, programmatic regulatory mainstreaming.The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10113-023-02066-7.