Restoring Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functions through Nature Based Solutions

Biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation are accelerating worldwide, threatening the capacity of ecosystems to sustain essential functions and services that underpin human well-being. Drivers such as land-use change, climate change, pollution, overexploitation, and biological invasions have reduced ecosystem resilience across terrestrial, freshwater, coastal, and marine systems. In response, Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) have gained prominence as an integrative approach that works with natural processes to address societal challenges while simultaneously enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. This review synthesizes current scientific understanding of how NbS contribute to the restoration of biodiversity and ecosystem functions. We examine the conceptual foundations of NbS, major categories of interventions across different ecosystems, and the ecological mechanisms through which NbS improve habitat quality, connectivity, and key ecosystem processes. Evidence from global case studies is assessed to highlight ecological outcomes, co-benefits for climate adaptation and mitigation, and implications for human well-being. The review also critically discusses trade-offs, social and governance dimensions, and challenges related to scaling, monitoring, and long-term effectiveness. We conclude by identifying key research gaps and policy priorities, emphasizing the role of well-designed and inclusive NbS in reversing biodiversity loss and supporting resilient ecosystems under global environmental change.