Europe's climate plans ignore nature's rights, study finds
A study of policymakers across five European regions reveals that nature-based climate solutions overlook the needs of non-human species, treating them as side benefits rather than stakeholders. Experts say reframing adaptation projects as collaborative partnerships between humans and nature could unlock more effective and equitable climate strategies.
Originaltitel: Can nature-based solutions for climate adaptation promote multispecies justice: insights from European regions
Abstract Previous research underscores the importance of addressing biodiversity loss within environmental justice, introducing the concept of multi-species justice (MSJ) to recognise the rights and agency of non-human species. Despite its theoretical foundation, practical applications of MSJ remain underexplored. This paper contributes to operationalising MSJ in climate adaptation by exploring barriers to addressing justice beyond humans in nature-based solutions (NbS) governance and planning. Through focus-group interviews with policymakers and practitioners across five European regions, this research examines perceptions of justice related to NbS and the integration of care for nature into decision-making. The findings indicate several steps are needed to enable MSJ through NbS. First, viewing NbS as relations and an infrastructure of care, treating climate adaptation as part of a heterogeneous network of concerns. This shift conceptualises NbS as a bridge between humans and nature, addressing shared needs and values. Second, scrutinising the critical junctures where the multiplicity of NbS is overlooked. Third, shifting views, structures, and practices can begin with small, incremental changes that lead over time to larger changes in direction. Fourth, repairing the human-nonhuman system of relations involves identifying entry-points for change within policymaking routines and engaging in a cycle of rethinking, reframing, regenerating, and relearning relationships.