Recommendations on establishing urban nature-based solutions in the Western Balkans

Policy Brief UPSURGE

This policy document presents concrete recommendations for establishing urban nature-based solutions in major Western Balkan cities such as Tirana, Belgrade, Sarajevo, Skopje, Podgorica and Pristina. It explains the conceptual foundations of nature-based solutions, highlights their role in climate adaptation, flood risk reduction, public health, social cohesion and economic resilience, and connects local action with EU Green Deal, biodiversity and climate adaptation policies. The publication also discusses how to distinguish sustainable from unsustainable NBS, how green and blue infrastructure can address heatwaves, flooding, air pollution and biodiversity loss, and why aligning with EU frameworks and funding instruments is strategic for municipalities in the region. The policy documents reflects on success depends on thoughtful design, participatory governance, long-term stewardship, and alignment with European policy frameworks. The region stands at a critical juncture. Rapid urbanization and climate pressures demand innovative responses. By embracing well-designed and sustainable Nature-Based Solutions, Western Balkan cities can transform environmental challenges into opportunities for regeneration and resilience. The establishment of urban NBS is not merely an environmental initiative. It is a social, economic, and cultural investment in the future of the region’s cities and their citizens.

Recommendations on establishing urban nbs

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Languages: English

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The UrbanByNature programme is funded by the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme of the European Union under Grant Agreements No. 730222 and No. 776604. It has received funding for an update by the Horizon Europe Programme under the Grant Agreement No 101003818. The sole responsibility for the content of this website lies within UrbanByNature and in no way reflects the views of the European Union.