Nature-based climate solutions (NBCS) that conserve, restore and sustainably use biodiversity and ecosystems hold promise in helping people adapt to the adverse effects of climate change. At the same time, global biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation threatens the capacity of nature to provide essential adaptation services. The Nature for Climate Adaptation Initiative (NCAI) enhances capacity for implementation of NBCS, with a focus on rights-based, inclusive approaches. Through presentations and a moderated Q&A, we’ll examine how to generate measurable biodiversity co-benefits through NBCS. The NCAI is funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by IISD in partnership with a global community of practice on nature-based solutions.

The agenda will include overviews of: Canada’s Partnering for Climate initiative which supports NBCS implementation in developing countries, and the NCAI capacity-building tools. Invited experts will then provide concrete examples of how traditional knowledge and diverse knowledge systems can complement Western science, and novel methodologies and technology to measure biodiversity outcomes from NBCS implementation. A CBD representative will also discuss the role of rights-based approaches and nature-based solutions in the Global Biodiversity Framework to achieve the vision of living in harmony with nature by 2050.

This session will be the third in a series of events/workshops convened by IISD, GAC and other partner organizations to unveil the challenges and opportunities in scaling up nature-based climate solutions, addressing the core themes of social inclusion, gender equity and biodiversity co-benefits.