Summary
This systematic analysis of the Nature-based Solutions research landscape (1990–2021) reveals substantial bias towards biodiversity and climate challenges, with four critical societal areas—food security, water security, human health, and economic development—substantially under-represented in peer-reviewed literature. The authors propose six strategic research pathways to rebalance evidence generation and provide a framework for aligning future research investment with societal needs that integrate environmental conservation with human welfare and economic outcomes.
Regional applicability
The identified research gaps in Nature-based Solutions for food and water security, human health outcomes, and economic development are likely relevant to UK policy and practice, particularly as the UK develops environmental land management schemes and water security strategies. The proposed research pathways could inform UK research councils and policy bodies in prioritising funding for integrated Nature-based Solutions research that addresses both environmental and human welfare objectives.
Key measures
Peer-reviewed publication frequency and thematic distribution across societal challenge categories (biodiversity, climate, food security, water security, human health, economic development, social development); temporal trends 1990–2021
Outcomes reported
The study identified and quantified research representation across seven major societal challenges addressed by Nature-based Solutions from 1990–2021, revealing significant under-representation in four critical areas: economic and social development, human health, food security, and water security. The authors mapped thematic evolution over time and geographic distribution of the research landscape.
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