Practical guide to integrate Ecosystem Services when formulating spatial and urban planning programs

By project RENATUR

Published on 28 June 2022

Spain

País Vasco

About this good practice

The European Environment Agency (EEA) recommends the integration of the results of an
valuation of ecosystem services in spatial planning, as it differentiates between areas with high and very high capacity to provide ecosystem services. Such integration should take place early in the process of formulating plans and of the formulation process of spatial or urban plans and programmes, and incorporate the results of the ES valuation the results of the valuation of ES into the content of these plans or programmes.
The guide is designed to directly address this problem by functioning as a practical working tool targeted mainly at technical experts working in public administrations, sub-provincial associations, consortia, and representatives from the private sector (environmental consultants and architecture or planning studios, etc.), academia (universities and technology centers), and the social field (NGOs and environmental associations).

The content includes: conceptual frameworks of ES and natural diversity, Green Infrastructure and Nature Based Solutions concepts; how to include the ES in spatial planning at different scales, how to perform a diagnosis of the territory based on ES; how to perform biophysical an dsocio-cultural ES evaluation, how to include ES at different regulatory frameworks.

Resources needed

Edition and design: 3000 euros
Impression: 2000 euros

Evidence of success

This guide is, on the one hand, an example of successful collaboration between academic and political actors. On the other hand, it constitutes a practical work tool based on proven scientific knowledge and aimed at generating a significant impact on society, introducing the vision into plans, programs and projects.

Potential for learning or transfer

The guide has been elaborated by the UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Development and Environmental Education (University of Basque Country) with the coordination of the Bizkaia County Council. It has been founded by the Basque Government’s Ministry for the Environment, Territorial Policy and Housing and by the Bizkaia County Council´s Department of Sustainability and Environment.

Interaction between knowledge-generating entities and decision-makers and legislators is key to protecting the natural heritage of PUOS, its biodiversity and associated ecosystem services, as urbanization and investment beyond city limits increases.

Through this experience, it is intended to convey the importance of finding the right format to get scientific evidence and relevant knowledge to the bodies in charge of implementing the actions that can actually change the environment and natural heritage of PUOS.