NbS are managed adaptively, based on evidence
This Criterion requires that NbS include provisions to enable adaptive management as a response to uncertainty and as an option to effectively harness ecosystem resilience. A degree of uncertainty is inherent when managing ecosystems due to their complex, dynamic and self-organising nature. This also means that ecosystems have greater resilience which confers a wider range of options to respond to unanticipated social, economic, ecological or climate events. The foundation of adaptive management is the evidence-base provided by regular monitoring and evaluation, drawing on scientific understanding as well as indigenous, traditional and local knowledge. By proactively adopting an adaptive management approach, the NbS can continue to be relevant through the lifecycle of the intervention and the risk of redundancy and stranded investments minimised.
7.1 Assumptions on how desired NbS outcomes are achieved under dynamic social, economic and ecological conditions are defined and made explicit.
The NbS outcomes to address the priority societal challenges and biodiversity outcomes (as defined in Indicators 1.3 and 3.3) – and the actions to be taken to achieve them – should be informed by the prevailing economic, social and ecological conditions and supported by the best available scientific evidence and Indigenous, traditional and local knowledge. Clear assumptions should also be made to whether and how the prevailing conditions are expected to change and impact the delivery of the desired NbS outcomes. Therefore, the integrated systems perspective should be applied (Indicator 2.1).
7.2 The validity of the assumptions is periodically tested through monitoring and evaluation as part of an ongoing learning process.
In adaptive management, a feedback loop is a crucial iterative learning process where monitoring data is used to evaluate and adjust management strategies, leading to continuous improvement and learning. A monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plan is a key requirement to understand whether NbS effectively deliver the intended outcomes and whether any changes in the assumptions require a change in the NbS actions. The M&E should be conducted throughout the lifetime of the intervention to ensure long-term ecological and social impacts are assessed and inform not only the NbS management but also the establishment of the enabling conditions for NbS mainstreaming and scaling (Criterion 8). Where NbS have synergies with other complementary interventions (Indicator 2.2) and safeguards and relevant corrective actions (Indicator 6.1), these should be included in the M&E plan. Observed and sustained changes in the stated assumptions (Indicator 7.1) should trigger an adaptive management response (7.3).
7.3 Necessary changes to the management of the NbS are defined and implemented through an inclusive and participatory approach.
Indicators 7.1 and 7.2 provide the framework for iterative learning that enables adaptive management to be applied throughout the intervention lifetime. This adaptive management approach may involve implementing corrective actions ensuring that NbS objectives remain relevant. Any changes to the NbS should be implemented through inclusive and participatory approach (Indicator 5.3). The learning framework should be institutionalised within local or partner institutions to strengthen long-term ownership and ensure continuity beyond the project’s duration.
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