A new study by Giuffrida et al. (2026) examines how communities in the Simeto Valley, an Italian inner area, perceive environmental fragilities and their willingness to adopt Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). By combining participatory action research, GIS mapping, and focus groups, the study highlights the interlinked environmental and socio-economic vulnerabilities faced by local residents, from soil degradation and water scarcity to inadequate infrastructure and limited public services
The research emphasizes a critical gap between policy narratives on NBS and local awareness, suggesting that active community engagement is essential for the effective adoption of sustainable interventions. Projects such as GIFLUID, TRESOR, and CARDIMED serve as concrete examples of successful NBS implementation and provide valuable inspiration for local communities to develop their own initiatives, tailored to the specific needs of the territory. These projects are cited within the article as evidence that collaboration and active engagement are possible in the Sicilian context.
By integrating local knowledge and participatory processes, the study encourages residents and stakeholders to play an active role in shaping resilient and sustainable strategies, promoting both ecological health and social well-being in marginal areas.
Reference:
Giuffrida, E. R., Licciardello, F., Popartan, L. A., & Graziano, T. (2026). “I can’t think about nature right now”. Perceptions of territorial fragility and the acceptance of nature-based solutions in the Simeto Valley (Italy): a participatory approach. Natural Hazards, 122(4), Article 162. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-025-07912-x
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