A renewed global framework to advance high-integrity, scalable, and inclusive Nature-based Solutions worldwide
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially launched the Second Edition of the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions™ (NbS), providing an updated and comprehensive framework for assessing, implementing, and monitoring high-integrity Nature-based Solutions across sectors and regions worldwide.
The updated Standard reinforces the growing global recognition that Nature-based Solutions are essential tools for addressing interconnected environmental, social, and economic challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, water insecurity, food insecurity, disaster risks, and sustainable development.
According to IUCN, Nature-based Solutions are defined as actions that protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural or modified ecosystems while simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits. The framework emphasizes that NbS must be adaptive, inclusive, scientifically grounded, and capable of delivering measurable benefits for both people and nature.
The Second Edition builds on years of scientific consultation, expert review, and global implementation experiences since the launch of the First Edition in 2020. The revised framework includes eight core criteria and 27 indicators designed to guide governments, local authorities, civil society organizations, financial institutions, Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and private sector actors in designing credible and sustainable NbS interventions.
The updated Standard highlights several key priorities, including:
- Addressing societal challenges through participatory and rights-based approaches,
- Enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem integrity,
- Ensuring financial feasibility and long-term sustainability,
- Promoting inclusive and transparent governance,
- Integrating risk management and adaptive learning,
- Supporting policy mainstreaming and international environmental commitments.
IUCN stressed that Nature-based Solutions are increasingly recognized within major international frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
The organization also emphasized that NbS can help countries and communities harmonize biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation and mitigation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable development objectives while strengthening resilience and social cohesion.
The Second Edition of the Global Standard introduces strengthened guidance on safeguards, equity, Indigenous Peoples’ participation, ecosystem connectivity, and evidence-based monitoring systems. It also incorporates emerging tools and technologies, including remote sensing and artificial intelligence, to support the design, implementation, and scaling of Nature-based Solutions.
To support implementation, IUCN continues to provide an online Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) enabling practitioners and institutions to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their NbS interventions and improve alignment with the Global Standard.
The publication was approved by the IUCN Council on 19 May 2025 and forms part of IUCN’s broader commitment to advancing scientifically credible, socially just, and environmentally effective Nature-based Solutions globally.
The full publication, IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions™ – Second Edition, is available through IUCN’s official platforms.
https://portals.iucn.org/library/node/52867
