The Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions™ was developed by IUCN and the IUCN Commission on Ecosystem Management (CEM). This Professional Certificate aims to train individuals from all sectors interested in gaining expertise in the field.
About this course
The concept of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) is gaining momentum around the world and NbS are increasingly accepted and implemented to address societal challenges. IUCN estimates that they can provide over a third of the world's climate mitigation needs while benefiting people and nature. This course will equip participants to understand the updated IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions™, to apply the Standard to develop sustainable projects and solutions, and to prepare for high integrity application.
The Second Edition of the Standard reflects lessons learned since 2020 and responds to growing global demand for credible, high-impact NbS. Updates include enhanced clarity and usability, stronger equity and rights-based safeguards, improved framing of financial feasibility and long-term viability, and greater emphasis on enabling conditions such as policy, finance and regulation to scale NbS confidently and sustainably.
What will you get from this course?
- Understanding of the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions criteria and the ability to identify the expertise and tools needed, to use the Standard.
- Enhanced capacity to highlight the gaps in evidence for NbS.
- An understanding of the approach and means for assurance of high integrity application of NbS.
- Improved ability to analyse the opportunities and challenges for NbS.
- Confidence to communicate, engage and cooperate with other similar or complementary NbS projects and initiatives.
- Options to initiate and integrate approaches to NbS into your work.
Why should you take this course?
- Gain a better understanding of what meets the requirements for a NbS and how to use the Standard to identify and overcome gaps and shortcomings.
- Increase your ability to contribute towards positive change to address societal challenges, through applying the Standard and using the self-assessment tool.
- Become part of a network of peers for continuous learning, building collaboration and developing alliances for successful use of the Standard.
Course details
🕒 Start date: 17 February 2026
🕒 Duration: 5 weeks
Click here for a detailed schedule
🕒 Weekly estimated effort: 5 - 7 Hours weekly, self-paced
📖 Course type: Hybrid with self-paced e-learning and 6 online live sessions with NbS experts
📖 Course includes: Modules, individual project and group work
🗨️ Languages: English
Registration: OPEN
Award: Professional Certificate on successful completion of the course