On 30 September, a high-level conference entitled “Nature-based Solutions: Innovation Potential for Smart, Sustainable and Inclusive Growth in Europe” was held in the European Parliament. It promoted the solutions nature can offer to tackle major challenges, conserve biodiversity, ensure food security and protect the health of the EU citizens.

The event was organized by the European Parliament Intergroup on Climate Change, Biodiversity and Sustainable Development in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the European Commission. It brought together 140 participants, ranging from representatives from the European Institutions, regional and local authorities, NGOs, research institutions and international organisations as well as representatives from the private sector.

UNEP was represented in the panel on “Turning visions into actions on EU level” by Ulf Björnholm, Head of UNEP Brussels Liaison Office. Mr Björnholm highlighted the importance of quantifying - in economic terms - the value of ecosystem services, and highlighted The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) aimed at improving knowledge about the economic value of ecosystems. Improving communication efforts through convincing economic arguments is key to creating the necessary political momentum for turning biodiversity vision to action.

More information: alexa.froger@unep.org