Nature-based solutions for climate adaptation in school environments: an interdisciplinary assessment framework

Abstract

Nature-based solutions (NbS), defined as actions supported by nature that simultaneously provide environmental and socio-economic benefits in sustainable and resilient ways, can play an important role in systemic transitions leading to climate resilient cities. Indeed, when incorporated in school environments (both within school settings and their surroundings), NbS interventions seem a promising path for boosting climate change adaptation while providing multiple co-benefits such as enhanced wellbeing, health and learning opportunities for children as well as increased carbon storage (climate change mitigation). However, the potential of these interventions has not yet been consistently assessed from an interdisciplinary perspective that can give a complete picture of how school-based climate NbS can lead to transformative, radical urban change and the main barriers to its implementation. This chapter responds to this knowledge and methodological gap by developing a framework for a holistic assessment of the health, socio-cultural, environmental and educational co benefits of implementing climate NbS in school environments, with a focus on children as primary beneficiaries. To do so, this chapter proposes and develops the concept of Nature based Climate School Shelters as an innovative strategy for urban sustainability transitions.