Study #12

Figure: Dream session of Antwerp’s experiment for the linear park in Sint Andries showing the format of the co-creation in action (Photo credits: Stadslab 20150, Antwerp, 17.06.2017).

What can we learn from science? - 7 lessons for NBS Urban Planning

Green urban planning in 7 steps? A 2019 study led by Dr. Niki Frantzeskaki from the Dutch Research Institute for Transitions (DRIFT) at Erasmus University Rotterdam analysed how cities can better plan and implement nature-based solutions (NBS) to tackle urban challenges like climate change and social well-being. Looking across 15 NBS projects in 11 European cities, the research identified seven key lessons for successful planning and delivery:

1. Make NBS aesthetically appealing to engage citizens.
2. Use NBS to build new urban green commons.
3. Foster trust and experimentation with local governments.
4. Include diverse voices and social innovation in co-creation.
5. Support collaborative governance across sectors.
6. Craft inclusive narratives that connect to broader city goals.
7. Design for learning and long-term replication.

Thanks to this research we know that nature-based solutions should blend ecology, governance, and community engagement to succeed — not just provide environmental benefits, but merge related disciplines together.

Frantzeskaki, N., Kabisch, N., & McPhearson, T. (2019). Seven lessons for planning nature-based solutions in cities. Environmental Science & Policy, 93, 101–111.
sciencedirect.com