ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the benefits of nature-based solutions (NBS) for enhancing biodiversity within urban environments, focusing on case studies from Turin and Ningbo. Biodiversity, encompassing genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity, is crucial for sustaining life support systems and human well-being. This chapter discusses the state of the art in assessing NBS impacts on biodiversity, particularly for insect pollinators and aquatic plankton. NBS aims to address environmental challenges by restoring and managing natural ecosystems to provide both societal benefits and biodiversity enhancement. Indicators for monitoring insect pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, and aquatic plankton (phytoplankton and zooplankton) are examined, alongside the challenges in evaluating these solutions, including inconsistent metrics and potential trade-offs. This chapter details methodologies employed during the proGIreg project, including monitoring protocols for Turin’s urban gardens and green corridors, and Ningbo’s lake restoration efforts. It highlights the role of Citizen Science and the application of various biodiversity indices, such as the Shannon Diversity Index, in assessing NBS effectiveness. The case studies demonstrate practical applications of NBS, showing their impact on biodiversity conservation and the utility of different monitoring techniques in urban and aquatic contexts.
