D6.2 Policy indicators and framework for Nexus-relevant NBS

LENSES WP6 requested to provide the methodological and practical foundations for the validation of Nature based Solutions (NBS), in order to guide pilots in the delivering of Nexus-added values. In response to the request, the Working Group on Task 6.2 worked on the definition of a technical guideline to allow the project's pilots to assess the policy enabling environment and governance challenges for Nature-based Solutions (NBS) and devised the following objectives: - Investigate whether and how WEFE Nexus and NBS concepts are addressed within key European and international policy documents. - Create an exercise that can guide LENSES pilots to investigate WEFE and NBS concepts within national and subnational policies. - Collect and present criteria on the most relevant NBS policy and governance frameworks. - Develop a new framework to support the analysis of the enabling environment capable of assessing how well policy and governance conditions are conducive to the implementation and success of an NBS project. - Develop a framework user guide to give instructions on the use of the framework to promote its application and circulation among LENSES pilots and other potential final users. The aim of the report is to provide a useful tool for those who want to design and implement an NBS so that they can work on the less impactful aspects of their NBS project and make it successful. It is important to note that the results of these activities present an initial framework that can be further elaborated and improved through users’ suggestions.