The Mediterranean region, with its unique blend of agriculture, grazing, and woodlands, is under serious threat from climate change. Rising temperatures, extended droughts, and unpredictable rainfall are endangering both ecosystems and the livelihoods of rural communities.
These challenges include water shortages, soil erosion, and weakened ecosystems. As a result, there’s a pressing demand for solutions that promote both environmental health and economic stability in these areas.
This is where Nature-based Solutions (NbS) come into play. The EU’s Horizon DRYAD project champions these solutions, aiming to boost the resilience of Mediterranean landscapes while supporting local economies.
NbS are increasingly viewed as vital for adapting to climate change. In Mediterranean Agro-silvo-pastoral Ecosystems (MAEs), these strategies can help retain moisture, replenish groundwater, and ease the effects of droughts and severe rain. They also assist in restoring soil health, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating climate effects.
Moreover, NbS can significantly impact socio-economic conditions. They can increase agricultural productivity, generate green jobs, and enhance the resilience of communities that often bear the brunt of climate change.
At the project’s start, the team identified 40 potential NbS across Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, and Greece. These were chosen based on local environmental conditions and the specific needs of each community. This groundwork is crucial for later selection and testing.
DRYAD created a report titled ‘Selection of Nature-based Solutions for MAEs.’ This document provides a clear framework to help stakeholders identify and select the best NbS for their areas. It focuses on practical solutions and encourages comparison and adaptation to local contexts.
- Water-related NbS: Techniques to manage and conserve water, such as drainage ditches and temporary ponds.
- Soil-related NbS: Innovative farming practices like rotational grazing and biochar applications to enhance soil quality.
- Biodiversity-related NbS: Efforts to support local flora and fauna, including tree planting and habitat creation.
Co-creation is vital to the success of NbS. Without involving local stakeholders—including farmers, researchers, and authorities—these solutions would lack the necessary grounding. This collaborative approach promotes shared ownership and ensures the NbS are tailored to real-world conditions.
After this inclusive process, DRYAD selected 11 out of the initial 13 NbS for real-world implementation. This choice reflects both technical viability and local relevance, making sure the solutions are properly tested.
The implemented NbS represent a shift from theory to practice, demonstrating their potential to adapt and thrive in changing environments. Information about each solution, including details about their features and implementation sites, is available on the DRYAD website: DRYAD | NbS.
These NbS are part of a larger strategy integrating nature, innovation, and local expertise. By doing so, DRYAD aims to create Mediterranean landscapes that can support both people and nature amidst climate challenges.
Funded by the Horizon Europe programme, the DRYAD project draws from the expertise of 27 partner organizations across six countries. Collaborators include universities, NGOs, research institutions, and farmer organizations, all working towards a resilient future.
As we face a changing climate, NbS offer a path forward that respects both the environment and the communities that depend on it.
Disclaimer: This project, funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme, reflects the views of the authors and does not necessarily represent the views of the European Union.
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Climate Change,Contributor Profile,The Innovation Platform Issue 26
