The study reveals the gap between the actual effectiveness and costs of green and grey flood mitigation measures and how experts and the public perceive them.

Abstract: Increased flooding is becoming more prevalent under an increasingly variable future of weather extremes, highlighting the need for effective mitigation strategies. Different flood mitigation measures are available, ranging from classical structural (grey) solutions to nature-based solutions (NbS). This study assessed and compared the hydrological effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and public perception of green (NbS), grey, and hybrid flood mitigation measures in the Gradaščica River catchment, Slovenia. For the hydrological assessment, a SWAT + model simulated wetland, retention polder, and dam scenarios. Results showed that wetlands had a minimal effect on flood hazard, reducing flood peaks by up to 3 %, while retention polders and dams reduced flood peaks by 51 % and 73 % and flood volumes by 28 % and 58 %, respectively. The economic analysis found wetlands to be less cost-effective than retention polders and dams. However, it should be noted that wetlands provide additional diverse co-benefits. The public perception analysis revealed significant discrepancies in perceived effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of flood mitigation measures across target groups, including the general public, water engineers, researchers, and agricultural advisors. While most groups ranked dams as most effective and wetlands as least effective, aligning with hydrological findings, researchers held a directly opposing view, and the public generally overestimated the performance of green measures. By examining hydrological effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and public perception across flood mitigation measures, the research highlights the need to integrate multidisciplinary approaches to develop robust flood management strategies – an essential lens as communities confront escalating climate-driven flood risks.

Citation: Graham, H. C., Akhtar, F., Šraj, M., Raška, P., Slavikova, L., Louda, J., Macháč, J., Zupanc, V., Bezak, N. (2025). Integrated Evaluation of Flood Mitigation Measures: A Multidisciplinary Approach Combining Hydrology, Economics, and Public Perception. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 105926. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2025.105926

The article reveals how vague use of the nature-based solutions concept shapes funding, effectiveness assessments, and the real impact of projects.

Abstract: The use of natural features for hydrometeorological risk reduction has been recently promoted in international strategies and led to an increasing number of actions framed, in particular, as nature-based solutions (NbS). This has sparked a growing debate about the performative role of these concepts in shaping the funding landscape. While several frameworks have been proposed to evaluate the NbS implementation, they can only be effectively applied if NbS and evaluation indicators are clearly defined within and across the individual projects. In this article, we draw upon knowledge representation theory and we provide an evolutionary analysis of the NbS and related concepts and a review of current funding calls in Europe (n = 53) and individual projects globally (n = 342). This allows us to show how NbS have become dominant in recent practical discussions on hydrometeorological risk reduction. While terminological framing as NbS is needed to link individual projects to pre-existing knowledge, our analysis reveals that it can also tend to leverage and legitimise funding. This leads to adverse effects on expert knowledge-building especially in urban settings where hydrometeorological risk reduction necessitates complex approaches, integrating various measures. We assert that too generic NbS framing introduces additional uncertainty in assessments of NbS effectiveness and potentially excludes other viable measures from consideration and implementation. We therefore argue that coherence between the stated NbS and the indicators capturing effectiveness of actual set of measures is critical for gaining evidence from monitoring of hydrometeorological risk reduction projects. For these purposes, we propose a guideline for transparent reporting of aims, concepts, implementation outcomes, and indicators for projects aiming at hydrometeorological risk reduction. Our work highlights the need for global coherence, cross-sectoral knowledge integration, and context-sensitive evaluations to ensure that NbS deliver multiple co-benefits beyond risk reduction.

Citation: Raška, P., Dolejš, M., Zupanc, V., Louda, J., Jakubínský, J., Bezak, N. (2025). Generic ‘nature-based’ framing may distort understanding of the effectiveness of hydrometeorological risk reduction measures. Ecological Indicators, 180, 114364. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2025.114364

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The paper introduces a multi-criteria impact assessment tool to preliminarily evaluate how RES projects affect local communities and reduce information asymmetry between investors, mayors, and residents.

Abstract: The ongoing energy crisis, the push for carbon neutrality, and the development of both European and national energy policies are driving significant changes in energy mix strategies. This is further supported by incentives, such as subsidies for operators of renewable energy sources (RES), which place municipalities and their mayors in a position to decide on the support for RES projects. The aim of the paper is to address the information asymmetry that exists among potential investors, mayors, and local residents through the introduction of an impact assessment tool. This tool, based on the multi-criteria analysis, is designed to help mayors and relevant stakeholders better comprehend the implications of RES and to evaluate their effects on local communities. The impacts of RES construction and operation are categorized into four key areas: environmental, social, economic, and innovative. The assessment process takes into account the unique characteristics of the local area, positioning the tool as a preliminary step before engaging in more resource-intensive methods such as feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments (EIA).

The effectiveness of the developed tool is demonstrated through a case study on the impact assessment of a proposed agrivoltaic power plant in the Šluknov region. Notably, compared to traditional photovoltaic power plants, agrivoltaic systems significantly mitigate a range of negative environmental impacts. Consequently, the implementation of such a power plant is anticipated to yield positive economic and social benefits for the micro-region.

Citation: Zaňková, L., Macháč, J. (2025). Impact Assessment of Renewable Energy in the Region: A Case Study of the Šluknov Agrivoltaic Power Plant. Journal of Landscape Ecology. https://doi.org/10.2478/jlecol-2025-0010

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The article compares farmers’ and residents’ preferences for nature-based solutions on agricultural land and identifies the main barriers to their implementation.

Abstract: Climate change affects both urban areas and rural landscapes, with issues such as drought, soil erosion, and flash floods becoming increasingly prevalent. Although the scientific community has long advocated for nature-based solutions (NBS), their adoption in agricultural practice remains limited. This study explores the preferences of farmers and residents regarding NBS on agricultural land, examines the level of social acceptance, and identifies barriers to NBS implementation from the farmers’ perspective. A questionnaire survey conducted in the Oleška River Basin, Czech Republic, assessed preferences for 12 measures. The results reveal partial agreement between the two groups: for example, grassing along streams and baulks is appreciated aesthetically by both. However, differences exist in perceived functionality. Farmers, drawing from practical experience, evaluate the aesthetics and functionality of measures such as contour tillage and afforestation differently than residents. Both groups perceived measures like retention pools as less effective for flood regulation. The findings highlight that financial constraints and complex landowner-farmer relationships hinder NBS implementation. This research emphasizes the need for land-use strategies that address both stakeholder preferences and practical challenges, enabling more effective adoption of NBS to mitigate climate impacts. As the evaluation of the measures shows, some practices – such as maize cultivation – are considered by both stakeholder groups to be the least aesthetic and least effective for flood regulation, and their support is therefore not justified. In contrast, afforestation is perceived positively by both groups, being seen as both highly aesthetic and effective in flood protection. These insights underline the importance of incorporating stakeholder preferences into policy design, particularly when developing financial incentives for NBS, and avoiding the promotion of agricultural practices that are neither visually appealing nor beneficial in terms of ecosystem services.

Citation: Zaňková, L., Macháč, J., Hekrle, M. (2025). In harmony or against each other? Czech farmers’ and residents’ attitudes towards nature-based solutions on agricultural land. GeoScape, 19(1), 64–76. https://doi.org/10.2478/geosc-2025-0005

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A systematic literature review presents the impacts of the Taxonomy in the area of corporate reporting, as well as the economic impacts at the firm level, the EU level, and the global level.

This study analyses public preferences and willingness to pay for different types of nature-based solutions in urban streets.

Abstract: Cities are increasingly adopting nature-based solutions (NBS) to address urban challenges and improve residents’ quality of life. Despite this growing interest, significant barriers remain, including limited public support, participation, and challenges in quantifying their economic value. This study explored public preferences for 15 types of NBS in two Czech cities, focusing on both aesthetic perceptions and economic valuation. Data were collected through assisted interviews on-site, with respondents in Prague (n = 205) and Litoměřice (n = 185). Using an image-assisted questionnaire survey, aesthetic preferences were assessed, followed by contingent valuation (CVM) and choice experiment (CE) methods to determine willingness to pay (WTP) for implementing NBS in urban streets. CVM findings revealed that residents were willing to pay an additional €39–52 per month for street greenery, equivalent to a 12–17% rent increase. However, while respondents generally appreciated NBS aesthetically and expressed positive WTP for greener streets, CE results showed significant variation depending on the type of NBS. Specifically, respondents were willing to pay only for grass strips and green façades, while solutions like green paving, permeable pavers, flower beds, and green roofs required compensation. This study underscores the gap between aesthetic appreciation and financial commitment to different NBS, providing novel insights into public preferences for less commonly studied solutions and informing future urban greening strategies.

Citation: Macháč, J., Hekrle, M., Brabec, J. (2025). I want my street to be green, but not in just any way: exploring public preferences for nature-based solutions in two Czech cities. Local Environment, 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1080/13549839.2025.2543311

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A study from three European countries reveals why both experts and the public still prefer grey flood measures over green solutions.

Abstract: Climate change is expected to affect the frequency and magnitude of floods, which are among the costliest hazards in Europe. As natural hazards have a significant impact on infrastructure and people’s lives and their habitats, novel measures to cope with climate change need to be considered. Different types of measures, such as green, grey and hybrid solutions, can be used to mitigate the impacts of natural hazards. Green measures (also referred to as nature-based solutions) are currently being promoted in the European Union, but several barriers to implementing these measures exist. The question arises as to what hinders the wider implementation of green measures and therefore results in a preference for conventional grey measures in some countries. This study examines the differences in the perceived effectiveness, feasibility and acceptance of different types of flood risk management measures in three European countries (Slovenia, Czechia, and the Netherlands). The results show statistically significant differences in the perceived effectiveness, feasibility and acceptance of the studied measures. With respect to individual measures, respondents in all three countries tend to view conventional grey measures (dams and cisterns) as more effective and acceptable than green and hybrid measures. However, grey measures are perceived as difficult to implement. The results reveal that the perceived effectiveness and acceptability of the measures are related. The major drivers affecting the differences in the perceptions of different measures are the countries of the respondents and the sociodemographic variables of income and age. In contrast to other studies, experiences with past floods and private insurance are not statistically significant. Our results thus indicate that, along with individual behaviour, aggregate social drivers should be considered when implementing flood risk management measures across the EU.

Citation: Bezak, N., Raška, P., Macháč, J., Louda, J., Zupanc, V., Slavíková, L. (2024). Investigating the public perception of green, hybrid and grey flood risk management measures in Europe. Progress in Disaster Science, 23, 100360. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pdisas.2024.100360

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An article based on a survey of farmers examines the factors that can be used to identify landowners who are more willing to cooperate in coordinated flood protection.

Abstract: Flooding poses a significant and recurring threat in numerous regions. The adverse impacts of flooding can be mitigated through risk sharing, such as insurance or risk reduction. However, insurance might not be accessible in underdeveloped markets or in instances where floods are too frequent. Similarly, the necessary funding or land for structural measures might not be available. Alternatively, measures could be implemented on private land, either through individual initiatives or as part of a coordinated effort. This approach was explored in the flood-prone regions of Albania and North Macedonia. A survey conducted among 124 farmers revealed that 73% of them are willing to allocate land for flood mitigation, provided they receive adequate compensation. Furthermore, certain factors increase farmers’ willingness to cooperate. A logit model indicated a positive correlation between expectations of future floods (increased severity and frequency), receipt of ex-ante financial support, positive perception of the effectiveness of agricultural flood mitigation measures, and age. Those who view flood protection as personal responsibility and those more inclined to pay for flood insurance are less likely to cooperate. The findings could be utilized to identify farmers who are likely to contribute to establishing a coordinated effort on a stable basis.

Citation: Brabec, J., Macháč, J., Kis, A., Ungvári, G. (2024). Factors influencing farmers’ willingness to provide private land for a coordinated flood mitigation scheme in the Drin basin. Journal of Flood Risk Management. https://doi.org/10.1111/jfr3.13027

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This article explores how children from Generation Z perceive the attractiveness of nature-based solutions and which ecosystem services they value most.

Abstract: Current studies on nature-based solutions (NBS) in urban areas often overlook young people, who are essential users of urban spaces. Our study from the Czech Republic fills this gap by investigating how children (Generation Z, 11–15 years) perceive 12 NBS and 3 grey infrastructure measures and their ecosystem services (ES). Results from an image-based questionnaire survey indicate that water features, trees and flower beds are the most attractive for spending leisure time, while most other features were perceived as relatively unattractive by the children surveyed. In addition, the results highlight oxygen production as the most valued service by children, followed by biodiversity support and aesthetic function. This study emphasises the need for inclusive management of NBS and recognises the role of multiple stakeholders, including children, in creating attractive urban spaces.

Citation: Hekrle, M., Drdla, J. (2024). Talking to the young generation: perception of nature-based solutions’ attractiveness by children from Generation Z. Local Environment, 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1080/13549839.2024.2407608

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This article compares different cost–benefit analysis (CBA) approaches to assess the economic value of real green roof projects.