LAND4CLIMATE regions learning how to bring Nature-based Solutions into practice
How can landowners be encouraged to give Nature-based Solutions a chance? How can regions deal with complex permitting procedures, funding challenges, or the long-term maintenance of implemented measures? And what happens when a good idea meets the reality of administration and limited time? These were some of the questions explored by LAND4CLIMATE project partners during the latest peer-to-peer (P2P) learning events held in Aachen and later in Košice. The open exchange of experiences between front-runner regions (FRRs) and replicating regions (RRs) is one of the project’s greatest strengths. The meetings are coordinated by partners from Agency for the Support of Regional Development Košice (ARR) together with DEN Institute, whose facilitation helps create an environment based on trust, collaboration, and practical learning.
Aachen: When Trust Matters More Than Technology
The third peer-to-peer meeting took place in October 2025 in Aachen. The main focus was the implementation of Nature-based Solutions on private land — where success often depends not only on technical solutions, but above all on people. From the very first presentations, it became clear that the participating regions were at different stages of implementation. Some were still planning their first steps, while others had already implemented concrete measures and were beginning to see visible results in the field. Discussions naturally turned to one of the biggest challenges: cooperation with landowners. Partners openly shared both positive experiences and situations involving skepticism or lack of trust. It became clear that general environmental arguments are often not enough to convince landowners. Much more important are the direct and practical benefits for their land and farming activities, such as improved water retention, erosion protection, or greater resilience to drought. Several regions emphasized that successful implementation requires time, patience, and trusted local partners who understand local conditions and can communicate in a way that resonates with landowners. Another important topic was the financing of measures after the end of the LAND4CLIMATE project. Partners agreed that the future of NbS depends on connecting project funding with national support schemes and ensuring long-term maintenance of implemented measures. One important realization emerged during the discussions: smaller and simpler measures can often become the most effective starting point for larger systemic changes.
Košice: From Planning to Implementation
During the March meeting in Košice, it was clear that many regions had moved from planning to actual implementation. Discussions were no longer only about visions and concepts, but also about real experiences with construction works, planting activities, and on-site implementation. One of the key topics was permitting procedures, which partners identified as one of the biggest barriers to implementing Nature-based Solutions. Several regions confirmed that permitting processes are often lengthy, complicated, and involve multiple institutions at different governance levels. As a result, many regions prefer smaller measures that do not require complex administration and can be implemented more easily within a time-limited project. The discussion also focused on an important question: what happens after the project ends? Partners shared experiences with maintenance systems, contractual mechanisms, and ways of motivating landowners to continue taking care of implemented measures in the future. The most important factors for long-term success were identified as:
- low-maintenance solutions
- clearly defined responsibilities
- stable funding
- and active involvement of local partners
Replicating regions also openly discussed the challenges they face most often limited capacities, difficult communication with landowners, and the technical complexity of NbS measures. Yet one common message was repeated throughout the workshop: practical experience and sharing real-life examples are extremely valuable.
When Results Speak for Themselves
Practical demonstrations and visits to implemented measures are among the greatest benefits of peer-to-peer meetings. Partners repeatedly emphasized that seeing measures directly in the field is often the best way to motivate other landowners or municipalities to become involved in implementation. The atmosphere of both workshops showed that peer-to-peer learning is not only about expert presentations. It is mainly about open conversations, sharing mistakes, exchanging practical experiences, and jointly searching for solutions. Participants appreciated the opportunity to speak openly about problems, delays, and unsuccessful experiences - because these discussions help other regions better prepare for similar situations.
Small Steps, Big Impact
One of the strongest messages from both meetings was the realization that even small measures can bring significant results. Smaller and easier-to-implement solutions often represent the first step toward larger systemic changes. At the same time, they help build public trust and demonstrate that Nature-based Solutions can deliver real results in practice.
This article was written by Lenka Krištofová from LAND4CLIMATE consortium partner Agency for the Support of Regional Development Košice (ARR)
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