ľ�ϸ���Ӱ��

Researchers from Utrecht ľ�ϸ���Ӱ��, Windesheim ľ�ϸ���Ӱ�� of Applied Sciences, Avans ľ�ϸ���Ӱ�� of Applied Sciences, and Het Groene Brein have joined forces to explore how networks—groups of interconnected actors with shared goals—can break down barriers to nature-based solutions (NBS) in both rural and urban areas.

Nature-based solutions like green roofs in cities and ecosystem-based approaches to agriculture are a vital piece of the puzzle for creating sustainable societies. However, their implementation faces numerous challenges, which can include high costs, a lack of knowledge, policies that limit their implementation and underlying societal narratives working against them. A dives deep into understanding how networks such as Cirkelstad—a platform for leaders in the circular and inclusive construction sector—or Heerenboeren— a national network for cooperative, self-harvesting regenerative farms—can help their respective sectors overcome these obstacles.

This research is a significant step towards understanding how collaborative networks can drive the acceptance and implementation of nature-based solutions

The research team started with a comprehensive review of existing literature to map out known barriers to nature-based solutions in agriculture and construction. They then engaged with academic experts and hosted online focus groups with sector professionals to refine their findings. Following this, they conducted semi-structured interviews with representatives from 16 networks involved in nature-based construction or agriculture.

Revealing Network Functions

The study unveiled seven key functions that networks perform to tackle barriers in six categories: economic, personal, political, social, technological, and cultural. These functions are divided into broad and targeted network functions:

Broad Network Functions:

1. Inspiring Change - Energizes efforts to overcome economic and personal barriers.
2. Developing Knowledge and Expertise - Provides solutions across all categories except personal.
3. Knowledge Sharing - Bridges gaps in economic, personal, political, and cultural barriers.
4. Facilitating Collaboration and Dialogue - Strengthens approaches to economic and personal barriers.

Targeted Network Functions:

1. Community Building - Focuses on overcoming social barriers.
2. Lobbying Towards Policymakers - Targets political barriers.
3. Realizing Economic Benefits - Concentrates on economic barriers.

Sector-Specific Highlights

The impact and emphasis of network functions vary between sectors due to differing structures and challenges.

• Construction Sector: Networks here shine in "Inspiring Change," "Knowledge Sharing," and "Facilitating Collaboration and Dialogue."
• Agricultural Sector: "Knowledge Sharing" leads the way, supported by "Developing Knowledge and Expertise," "Facilitating Collaboration and Dialogue," and "Lobbying Towards Policymakers."

A Strategic Roadmap

This study offers a strategic roadmap for utilizing network functions to address specific barriers, promoting the adoption of NBS. However, it also highlights that not all barriers can be overcome by networks alone, particularly technological and political challenges in construction and social barriers in both construction and agriculture. This includes, among other things, uncertainty about and risks associated with the use of new techniques, policies that constrain adoption, and limited interest in nature-based solutions among certain groups.

Towards a Sustainable Future

“This research is a significant step towards understanding how collaborative networks can drive the acceptance and implementation of nature-based solutions,” says lead author Maryse Chappin, associate professor and innovation scientist at Utrecht ľ�ϸ���Ӱ��’s Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development. “By leveraging these insights, we can make strides in creating more sustainable and resilient urban and rural environments”.