Cost-effectiveness of nature based solutions in the urban environment. REGREEN Deliverable D2.3

In this REGREEN deliverable D2.3, we provide an overview of costs for nature areas that can serve as NBS. We provide cost estimates for green and blue spaces in urban and peri-urban areas. We also provide cost estimates for de-pavement projects, street trees, green roofs and green walls. We show that these cost estimates can be applied in cost-effectiveness analysis in three different examples. We furthermore discuss how the cost-effectiveness analysis can be expanded to account for the potential multiple benefits provided by nature in urban and peri-urban areas that are in line with the spatial planning policy objectives by local authorities. We argue that a stepwise ranking of policy objectives in a cost-effectiveness analysis is a viable approach that will enable policymakers to make an informed choice over competing solutions.