Nature-based solutions and their potential to attract the young generations

This study aims to explore how Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) are perceived by the young generations, and to see if NBS are capable of attracting young visitors to a specific area. Young generations are generally considered as being more sensitive towards nature and sustainability issues. In this context, planning and developing NBS may prove to be a powerful instrument to raise the interest of young people towards formerly degraded urban and peri-urban areas and ecosystems. The results of a survey focused on a specific NBS site and involving 1543 university students demonstrate that gender is the factor that most influences the perception of NBS. Females tend to have a good knowledge and a positive perception of NBS, and they are keen to visit sites where NBS are present; in contrast, males emerge as a very heterogeneous group, with different levels of knowledge and perception of NBS among them, as well as different attitudes towards visiting NBS sites. The results of this study are expected to help decision-makers plan the development of NBS sites and target potential visitors. Further research on the topic is finally recommended.

Automated summary

This study found that females have a better understanding and positive perception of NBS, and are willing to visit NBS sites, while males exhibit a more diverse range of knowledge and perceptions, as well as varying attitudes towards visiting NBS sites.