Nature-Based Solutions for Transforming Sustainable Urban Development in China

Urban sustainability transitions imply the co-evolution of the integrated social, ecological, and technical systems and can be driven by innovations initiated by different urban actors, both public and private. Drawing insights from sustainability transitions and urban governanceUrban governance literature, this chapter explores the potentials of nature-based solutionsNature-Based Solutions (NBS) in transforming urban sustainable development in China, which has been characterized by a state-dominated top-down steering mechanism and a technocratic planning and development pattern. Currently, state-led and modernisationModernisation-guided urban sustainability programs and their pilotPilot projects dominate both public and academic discourses on the efforts and promises for a sustainable urban future in China. This chapter argues that with few actual changes in the governance system that largely excludes the civil society and private sector organisations in decision-makingDecision-making and practices, these efforts often fail their promises in advancing transformational changes in urban China. The rush to build ‘eco’, ‘low-carbonLow-carbon, ‘smart’, or ‘green’ cities even generated unintended and negative outcomes on local ecology and community. The rising concept of nature-based solutionsNature-Based Solutions (NBS) encompasses multi-actor dynamics, various forms of interventions, and multiple benefits for people and nature. Its inclusiveness and multi-functionalityMulti-functionality could draw wider attention and support for non-state-led innovations across Chinese cities, and thus, open up a great opportunity for promoting urban sustainability transitions in China.