The IUCN has just released a new publication bringing together 21 case studies from around the world, offering valuable insights into the practical implementation of Nature-based Solutions (NbS). These examples illustrate the application of the new IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions and serve as a source of inspiration for other sites where this type of solution could be adopted.
Launched in 2020, the Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions was created to help governments, NGOs, businesses, and communities design, implement, and evaluate projects that use nature to address major societal challenges (climate, biodiversity, food security, water, natural hazards, health, etc.). The case studies cover a wide variety of ecosystems—marine environments, wetlands, terrestrial ecosystems (forests, grasslands, alpine areas), urban environments—as well as two economic initiatives. Together, they offer a rich and varied overview of possible approaches and best practices for implementing NbS on a global scale.
The Lagoons and Marshes on the former Camargue Saltworks site in the spotlight
Among these 21 case studies is a site co-managed by Tour du Valat, the Camargue Regional Nature Park, and the National Society for Nature Protection (SNPN) (case study no. 3): the Lagoons and Marshes on the former Camargue Saltworks site [1]. This site, which consists mainly of former salt marshes, has benefited from this standard self-assessment tool to analyze its compliance with 8 criteria and 28 indicators, and to provide informed feedback.
This case study illustrates the approach implemented for coastal ecological restoration, aimed at improving biodiversity and reducing coastal risks related to erosion and marine submersion. However, coordinating the project remains complex due to the multiplicity of stakeholders, their sensitivities, and the public policies involved. One point that should not be underestimated is that the success of these projects also depends on cooperation between stakeholders and a shared long-term vision, which is essential for meeting the ecological and social challenges of tomorrow.
Publication reference
Thibault M., Poulin B., Segura L., Billé R. (2025). Adaptive management of the lagoons and marshes of the former Camargue saltworks – France. In E. Cohen-Shacham, E. Cabecinha, & A. Andrade (Eds.), Applying the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions™: 21 case studies from around the globe (pp. 38–42). Gland, Switzerland.