As climate change impacts become apparent worldwide, many nations, including Ireland, are turning to nature-based solutions (NBS) as a strategy for adapting to and mitigating climate challenges.
NBS leverage natural processes to provide environmental, social and economic benefits while addressing climate and biodiversity goals. There are numerous opportunities for nations to invest in nature-based solutions. In this blog, we’ll specifically look at:
- Peatland restoration
- Urban greening
- Agroecosystem approaches
- Coastal and marine protection
- Sustainable wetlands
Based on insights from a 2024 report by the Climate Change Advisory Council, let’s examine these five key opportunities for advancing nature-based solutions, using Ireland as an applicable case study.
1. Peatland restoration: Carbon capture and biodiversity enhancement
When degraded, peatlands release significant carbon dioxide, exacerbating climate change. Restoration involves rewetting, planting native species and removing invasive vegetation.
This approach helps sequester carbon, improves water quality and mitigates flood risks. By focusing on areas like raised bogs and blanket bogs, Ireland could potentially offset large carbon emissions while restoring essential ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity​.
2. Urban greening: Resilient cities and enhanced wellbeing
As urban areas face increased rainfall and rising temperatures, urban greening solutions offer a resilient alternative to traditional “grey” infrastructure. Initiatives like green roofs, living walls, rain gardens and park expansions improve air quality, lower city temperatures and manage rainwater runoff.
For cities like Dublin and Cork, urban greening reduces flood risk, increases biodiversity and provides recreational spaces that improve public health and well-being. Dublin’s rain box planters and green roofs offer an example of how these solutions can simultaneously address environmental challenges and improve urban life quality​.
3. Agroecosystem approaches: Sustainable farming for climate adaptation
Nature-based solutions in agricultural systems, such as agroforestry, multi-species swards and organic farming, provide a pathway to sustainable agriculture while promoting carbon sequestration and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Agroforestry practices, like integrating trees with livestock, improve resilience to extreme weather, diversify income sources for farmers and enrich habitats for biodiversity. Ireland’s shift toward such sustainable practices can transform farms into carbon sinks, enhancing resilience to climate impacts while securing rural livelihoods​.
4. Coastal and marine ecosystem protection: Natural defences against sea-level rise
Ireland’s coastal areas are increasingly vulnerable to sea-level rise and extreme weather. Coastal restoration measures, including oyster reef restoration, dune stabilisation and salt marsh rehabilitation, help buffer coastal communities from storm surges and erosion.
For example, dune restoration with native vegetation provides natural stabilisation, protecting shorelines while preserving coastal biodiversity. These measures offer a sustainable defence for Ireland’s coastlines, reducing the need for costly artificial barriers​.
5. Sustainable wetlands: Enhanced water quality and flood management
Constructed wetlands offer effective and natural wastewater treatment, flood control and biodiversity enhancement. Wetlands filter pollutants, manage stormwater and provide habitats for various species.
Ireland’s integrated constructed wetlands, like those along the Tolka River, demonstrate the benefits of using wetlands to improve water quality while offering recreational opportunities. Expanding wetland projects can support Ireland’s goals for clean water, flood management and biodiversity​.
Overcoming barriers to nature based solutions in Ireland
Ireland’s implementation of nature-based solutions is a promising yet complex process, as is the case for most countries. Key barriers include limited funding, insufficient data on NBS efficacy, lack of appropriate technology and the need for coordinated multi-sector collaboration.
Scaling NBS efforts will require further investment, a shared national NBS framework and ongoing research to validate and refine approaches. Policymakers and stakeholders across sectors must collaborate to integrate these solutions more systematically, aiming for both immediate and long-term climate resilience.
Dulra is developing a cutting-edge AI data management platform designed to help nature-based solution projects secure funding by converting raw ecological, climate and socio-economic data into actionable reports for funders. Learn more.
