What do shaded paths, green roofs and restored waterways have in common? In many cities, they are already part of the urban landscape – yet often remain unnoticed. This guide guide, which was compiled by the Ecologic Institute and published by the German Environment Agency, focuses on these existing measures. It explains how municipalities can use city maps to make nature-based climate adaptation visible, place it in context and communicate it in a transparent and accessible way. 

City maps as an instrument for climate adaptation

Nature-based solutions operate in space. City maps make this spatial dimension usable by bringing together information, structuring existing measures and clarifying their functions. The guide treats maps not as a purely visual product, but as a practical tool that links planning, communication and participation.

Used in this way, city maps can support the systematic documentation of existing measures, explain their contributions to climate adaptation and quality of life, and facilitate exchange between municipal administrations, political decision-makers and the public.

From inventory to finished map

The guide outlines the key steps involved in developing a nature-based solutions city map. These include compiling relevant information on climatic challenges, ecosystem services and existing measures, defining clear objectives and key messages, and selecting appropriate formats – digital or analogue. Additional guidance is provided on design principles and accessibility.

Examples from municipal practice illustrate different applications, such as public information tools, a basis for participatory processes, or internal working instruments.

Using maps in practice

Beyond presentation, the guide also addresses how city maps can be used in public space. It introduces approaches such as thematic walking routes, QR codes at project sites, information panels or digital add-ons, including audio formats. The guide also provides suggestions for dissemination, for example, via municipal websites, social media, print products or public events.

Guidance for municipal practice

The guide is aimed at municipalities of different sizes and levels of experience. It combines technical background with practical implementation advice and supports local authorities in communicating nature-based climate adaptation in a structured way and embedding it in the urban context.

The guide was developed as part of the ‘Climate Adaptation Naturally!’ project and is available free of charge as a PDF file.