From pilot to paradigm: a call for entrepreneurial strategies to scale up the implementation of nature-based solutions

Source abstract

As extreme weather events intensify, the need for resilient and adaptive cities has become increasingly urgent. Nature-based solutions (NBS) are widely recognized for their potential to enhance urban adaptability while providing co-benefits such as recreation, biodiversity and improved health. Yet, their implementation remains slow, often limited to pilot projects rather than integrated, city-wide strategies. This article examines a more proactive, entrepreneurial approach to planning and implementation to accelerate the uptake of NBS. This in contrast to the often dominant and reactive planning approaches in place, relying on private initiatives to lead urban transformations. Focusing on the Belgian cities of Genk and Antwerp, both of which have developed strategic spatial visions employing NBS strategies and are now seeking to scale up implementation, we analyse how planners mobilize resources, cultivate cross-sector partnerships, seize implementation opportunities and build expertise through iterative learning. Despite operating under conditions of austerity, both cities demonstrate emerging entrepreneurial practices that actively advance NBS integration. We argue that accelerating NBS adoption requires a shift towards more proactive and entrepreneurial planning approaches capable of driving transformative, landscape-scale interventions. Current project-based and reactive planning practices are insufficient for the systemic change required to develop climate-adaptive urban environments.