Cities and Regions Turn to Nature-Based Solutions to Tackle Climate Change

The world's cities, states, and regions are increasingly looking to nature for climate defence, with the majority implementing at least one nature-based solution. This approach is becoming a mainstream strategy, rather than a fringe movement, as governments recognize the importance of protecting nature and tackling climate change.

Nature-Based Solutions

The CDP's research, 'Nature for People and Places', analysed data from 1,005 cities, states, and regions across 80 countries, representing around 1.32 billion people. The research found that 70% of subnational governments with climate adaptation goals prioritise nature-based solutions, including ecological restoration, building green infrastructure, and afforestation.

The benefits of nature-based solutions are numerous, with 65% of subnational governments noting at least one public health co-benefit, from better air quality to improved physical and mental health. Green spaces can help to cool cities, while green roofs and walls can insulate buildings, reducing the need for air conditioning and heating.

Funding Gap

Despite the multiple benefits of nature-based solutions, a significant funding gap still exists for realising climate adaptation projects. According to the CDP, 46% of regional governments report that budget is preventing further adaptation, with $33.51bn sought for climate adaptation projects in 2025, and $2.85bn requested for nature-related projects alone.

The funding gap is a major concern, with cities such as London needing an estimated £75bn to meet its net-zero by 2030 goal. Other cities that are further behind in their sustainability journeys will need significantly more, with C40 Cities estimating that cities in emerging and developing economies alone will require $147bn annually for adaptation through to 2030.

Call to Action

The CDP is calling for urgent action to unlock the funding needed for cities, states, and regions to implement nature-based solutions and achieve their climate goals. Transparent environmental data can help partners identify where investment is needed and direct capital towards projects capable of delivering solutions for building resilient communities. As Katie Walsh, global director for cities, states and regions at the CDP, stated, 'Climate change and nature loss are not separate issues... unlocking the funding they sorely need to achieve this is an urgent priority for investors and governments.'

The data shows that nature-based solutions are becoming core adaptation measures, rather than optional environmental initiatives, and it is essential that governments and investors take action to support these efforts.