Abstract
This chapter discusses the role of co-creation processes related to Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It investigates the triangulation of NBS, co-creation and the SDGs from the lessons learned in NBS Horizon 2020-funded project CLEVER Cities (See https://clevercities.eu/) with the aim to shed light on the role of co-creation pathways in achieving multiple co-benefits produced by NBS through the lens of the SDGs. This entry is divided in three main parts, discussing: (1) how NBS contribute to achieving the SDGs, (2) ways to deploy co-creation of NBS in Urban Living Labs (ULLs), (3) how co-creation on the local level can help achieve the SDGs (through macro categories of analysis and micro-level indicators). In this chapter, the importance of generating a common technical language around co-creation processes in NBS-related Horizon 2020 projects is discussed, and moreover, the need for a common comprehensive understanding of co-creation methodologies and tools that are widely used and spread across NBS implementation experiences. Recent experience with inclusive processes for co-creation of NBS provides evidence in supporting the achievement of SDGs. Nevertheless, an overall framework that triangulates NBS, co-creation methodologies, and the SDGs is still lacking on the practical level. Finally, this entry concludes that NBS co-creation processes could benefit from embedding SDGs as integral part of their methodological framework. Aligning with universally recognized targets and speaking a common language, i.e., 2030 Agenda, would help to break silos in local authorities’ agendas and boost alliances and partnerships, leading to societal transformative change.
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Acknowledgment
Authors want to thank CLEVER Cities Project team to support different reflections on the actual co-creation processes.
Funding
This document has been prepared in the framework of the European project CLEVER Cities. This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 innovation action program under grant agreement no. 776604. The sole responsibility for the content of this publication lies with the authors.
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Mahmoud, I.H., Morello, E., Rizzi, D., Wilk, B. (2022). Localizing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Through Co-creation of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). In: The Palgrave Encyclopedia of Urban and Regional Futures. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-51812-7_354-1
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