Nature-Based Solutions for Water Security: Recent Progress in Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting

Convenor: Perrine Hamel

Nature-based solutions – actions to protect, restore, or manage natural ecosystems to address societal challenges – have great potential to enhance water security worldwide. Since nature-based solutions are embedded in complex social, technological, and ecological contexts, their implementation often challenges conventional approaches to monitoring, evaluation, and reporting (MER) of watershed management.

To address these complexities, this session explores recent advances in MER practices by highlighting innovative methods and indicators tailored to diverse environmental, cultural contexts. By recognizing the plurality of worldviews and success metrics—spanning ecological, social, and economic dimensions—this session promotes a holistic approach to understanding and managing nature-based solutions for water security.

Contributions will focus on monitoring practices designed to improve watershed management, including innovative solutions for urban areas where rapid development and climate adaptation demand novel approaches. Additionally, the session will highlight innovative business models that enable the sustainable implementation and funding of watershed programs, fostering enduring partnerships between stakeholders.

The session invites leading global experts from academia, NGOs, and local governments to share their insights and experiences. Together, participants will explore practical pathways to promote best MER practices for nature-based solutions for water security.