- One
demonstration site
- One
follower site
- Seven
locations for nature-based solutions
- 2023-2028
Implementation timeline
Solutions
The Natalie project aims to help European regions adapt to climate change by developing and promoting nature-based solutions (NBS) that strengthen environmental and community resilience. One of the six case studies in this project is based in France, focusing on the restoration of aquatic systems. It involves a demonstration and a follower region (respectively, Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Grand Est).
Demonstration site
The demonstration site is in the Vienne River Basin. The demonstration measures are being implemented across seven sites. These sites were first monitored to establish their initial states, following methods designed through research and ad hoc consultations. Monitoring activities included water flows and temperature measures, species inventories, landscape evolution monitoring, among others. Two types of NBS will be implemented across these sites: the removal of dams from watercourses; the neutralisation of drains, which are ditches or pipes installed in wet areas to capture water and drain it, in wetlands.
Follower site
The follower site is in the Grand Est area and uses technical knowledge shared by the demonstration site. Local actors are being supported in designing and implementing their own projects, as well as developing socioeconomic models that positively impact biodiversity. Thanks to external private funding, three NBS projects are being implemented and monitored: the restoration of headwater hydrological networks in forest ecosystems to increase water retention; the neutralisation of drainage systems; and the recovery of remarkable ecosystems such as tufa marshes.
Co-benefits
Economic
The measures in the demonstration site contribute to the restoration of rivers and wetlands. This helps to secure water resources by reducing unnecessary and excessive evaporation from the artificial ponds created, or by improving water storage in peatlands by removing drains. In doing so, water availability during dry periods can be improved. This supports economically important sectors such as agriculture, industry and potable water supply. Costs associated with water scarcity may also be avoided, such as increased irrigation. In the follower region, the project also supports the development of biodiversity-positive socioeconomic models and helps to mobilise private funding for NBS projects.
Social
The case study strengthens collaboration between different stakeholders, including public authorities, landowners, researchers and local communities, through co_design processes and knowledge sharing. Local stakeholders are involved in the monitoring and implementation of the different NBS. The follower region receives support to identify local climate challenges, develop adaptation projects and build capacity for NBS. These activities increase awareness and improve local resilience to climate change.
Environmental
The implemented NBS in the case study restore natural river processes by removing dams from the watercourses, or by removing drains from wetlands. This helps to reconnect aquatic habitats, restoring wetlands. These actions improve river flow, reduce evaporation, increase the water storage capacity in soils, restore sediment transport, enhance water quality, support fish migration, reduce flood peaks and increase biodiversity. By restoring ecosystem functions, the project also strengthens resilience to drought and other climate-related pressures while improving the long-term health of aquatic ecosystems.
Best suited for
This model is best suited for regions having degraded rivers, wetlands, where climate change and previous human interference is increasing the risks of drought, water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and declining water quality. It is particularly applicable in catchments having artificial water bodies and drainage systems that are impacting river flow, and hence where restoring the natural hydrological functions of the river can improve ecosystem resilience. The approach is also well-suited to regions that wish to combine ecological restoration with stakeholder engagement and evidence-based monitoring.
Stakeholders' role
Successful implementation of this model requires collaboration between public authorities, water management organisations, researchers, landowners, environmental organisations, and local communities. Researchers provide technical guidance and monitoring methodologies, while public authorities and water managers coordinate planning and implementation. Landowners and local stakeholders support the delivery of measures and contribute local knowledge. In follower regions, stakeholders work together to identify local adaptation priorities, develop projects, and explore innovative financing mechanisms for NBS.
Built-in scalable tools
This case study incorporates different features that support replication and scaling. It is structured around the demonstrator and follower region. This enables replication, by facilitating exchange between the two areas. In the demonstration site, standardised monitoring methods generate data and evidence on the effectiveness of the measures being implemented. This provides practical experience that can be transferred to other regions. Knowledge exchange between the demonstration and follower regions supports capacity building, and the co-design approach enables solutions to be adapted to different local contexts.
Funding pathways
The pilot case was developed through the Horizon Europe-funded NATALIE project, as part of the EU Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change.
