The exploration of nature-based solutions as a social cohesion tool : a case study on the revitalisation of urban streams in the city of Dresden, Germany

Abstract

The Anthropocene era has dramatically reshaped river landscapes, posing a significant threat to these ecosystems. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) emerge as a promising and multifaceted approach to address these challenges, particularly in urban river contexts. Beyond ecological restoration, NbS hold the potential to promote social cohesion, a dimension often overlooked in current literature. This knowledge gap impedes a comprehensive grasp of NbS benefits, hampering their effective implementation and full realization. This study aims to investigate the potential of employing NbS for river restoration and seeks to explore the capacity of NbS to promote social cohesion within a community, a dimension that has not been fully explored in previous studies. Prohlis, an urban neighbourhood in Dresden, Germany is taken as a case study. The methodology involves data collection via surveys, interviews, and workshops, engaging both the local community and professionals. Initial findings indicate that collaborative NbS approaches effectively enhance community connections and shared responsibility. The study emphasizes the significance of considering local contexts, involving stakeholders, and highlighting co-benefits in NbS implementation. Ultimately, the research culminates in an integrated and practical framework that offers real-world guidance for leveraging the potential of NbS and fostering unity among diverse communities. Despite some limitations, this research contributes to a more profound understanding of the multifaceted benefits of NbS, paving the way for inclusive and sustainable approaches to contemporary environmental and social challenges.