What are Nature-Based Coastal Solutions (NBCS)?
Nature-Based Coastal Solutions (NBCS) can be defined as solutions that work with, integrates, or enhances nature to sustainably protect, manage, and restore the coast and its ecosystems. NBCS can enhance coastal resilience and address both coastal infrastructure and habitat enhancement needs as sustainable shore protection. NBCS are inspired by and incorporate nature into coastal management practices and engineering designs, but also may offer other environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Here are some examples:
Source: North Carolina Coastal Federation
Source: North Carolina Coastal Federation
Source: NOAA Fisheries, Photo: Patrick M. Quigley
Source: EPA - Coastal Wetlands Initiative
Source: Center for Coastal Resources Management, Virginia Institute of Marine Science
Source: Center for Coastal Resources Management, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Photo by K. Duhring
Source: Florida Living Shorelines
Source: Concordia University
Other Examples of NBCS:
- Artificial Reefs
- Artificial Dunes
- Artificial Wetlands/Marshes
- Submerged Sills
- Living Shorelines
- Planting Vegetation
- Sand Motor
However, there are many definitions for nature-based solutions, and no universally accepted version. Here are some additional links to other nature-based solutions definitions:
- National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office for Coastal Management
- The Nature Conservancy
- The United States Army Corps of Engineers
- IUCN
- EESI - Overview of Nature-Based Solutions
What are Natural Solutions?
Natural Solutions use or rehabilitate nature to enhance natural conditions and coastal ecosystems. These solutions come from existing or rebuilt natural environments or landscapes, rather than integrating natural processes or aspects into engineering designs or coastal infrastructure, such as NBCS.
Source: Michigan State University, Photo by Joshua G. Cohen
Source: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Some Examples of Natural Solutions:
- Use/rebuilding of forests
- Floodplains
- Wetlands
There are many definitions for natural solutions as well. Some are linked below:
- EESI – Natural Infrastructure
- Coastal Resilience – Natural Solutions