On 25 September 2025, Ecologic Institute welcomed the International Climate Protection Fellows of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation to its Berlin office as part of their study tour of leading German institutions engaged in climate protection. During the visit, the fellows explored how Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can foster resilient and just cities and how marine conservation contributes to climate protection.

Who defines NbS – and why is global dialogue essential? 

Following opening remarks and a brief discussion with Ecologic's Executive Director Christoph Heinrich, the fellows gained insights into policy instruments supporting NbS uptake for climate adaptation in Berlin. Ewa Iwaszuk illustrated how the city employs legislative and financial tools, cooperation mechanisms, and knowledge-sharing to integrate measures such as green roofs, rainwater retention, and sponge city concepts into its adaptation strategy. Former ICP Fellow Natalia Burgos Cuevas enriched the debate by posing a critical question: Who defines NbS – and why is global dialogue essential? Drawing on initiatives connecting Europe and Latin America, she highlighted the need for shared frameworks to ensure inclusivity and equity.

Exchange and hands-on workshop

Participants then joined a hands-on workshop using the Urban Governance Atlas (developed under the INTERLACE project) to explore how real-world policy instruments can inspire and inform new and innovative NbS initiatives. Later, Nico Stelljes presented Ecologic Institute's work on marine conservation and climate adaptation, featuring the HISTOMAR project – tracing historical baselines of marine species in the North and Baltic Seas – and TropicalAdapt, which advances ecosystem-based adaptation for coastal regions worldwide. His presentation underscored the critical role of coastal ecosystems in building climate resilience and protecting biodiversity.

The day concluded with an interactive exchange session led by Natalia Burgos Cuevas, where the fellows shared experiences from their time in Germany and reflected on their future paths in climate protection and conservation. The discussions left participants optimistic: Nature-based Solutions not only address environmental challenges but also hold the potential to advance justice, resilience, and collaboration across communities and regions.