Joint open letter: Make nature-based solutions the first line of defence against climate disasters
EuroHealthNet endorsed an open letter calling on the European Commission to make nature-based solutions the first line of defence against the worsening effects of climate change. The letter was signed by 34 organisations, including professional associations, local authorities, non-governmental organisations, and financial service providers.
As climate extremes intensify across Europe, the letter commends the Commission's focus on improving climate resilience by design. However, it notes that nature-based solutions are missing from the Commission’s approach, even though they would strengthen the natural foundations of long-term resilience while delivering multiple co-benefits cost-effectively.
As the EU prepares its European Framework for Climate Resilience, the 34 organisations urge the Commission to turn commitments into action and put nature at the heart of adaptation policy. Specifically, they call on the Commission to:
- Drive the systemic integration of nature-based solutions for climate adaptation as a key priority in the legislative part of the European Framework for Climate Resilience.
- Provide legal incentives and financing mechanisms for Member States to manage landscapes and water systems in a way that prioritises water and climate resilience and the preservation of key ecosystem services.
