June 18, 2025 | News
In the face of rising climate pressures, the city of Cascais, Portugal, is showing how nature-based solutions (NbS) can transform both urban and coastal landscapes. Two of its initiatives have been featured in the EU Mission on Adaptation’s Mission Stories, spotlighting Cascais in their initiatives to ensure their peaceful coexistence with their local nature that benefits everybody.
The adaptation story “Green Potential with Adaptation” highlights how Cascais is reimagining public spaces through NbS. A key and central point in this measure is the 10 km long Vinhas River and its renaturalisation to a green corridor that residents can also enjoy. From shaded parks to bridges and permeable pathways through the green, these interventions reduce urban heat, improve air quality, and create vibrant, inclusive spaces for residents. What sets this approach apart is its strong emphasis on co-creation—engaging citizens, schools, and local organisations in shaping their environment.
In “Rehabilitating a Coastal Dune System”, Cascais demonstrates how restoring natural dune ecosystems can protect against erosion and sea-level rise while enhancing biodiversity. This project blends ecological restoration with public awareness, showing that climate adaptation can be both functional and beautiful.
These stories are more than local successes—they’re blueprints for other cities. For Invest4Nature, Cascais’ work reinforces the importance of integrating NbS into urban planning and coastal management. It also highlights the value of community engagement in building long-term resilience.
Being featured in the EU’s Mission Stories elevates the visibility of Cascais’ efforts and strengthens the case for scaling NbS across Europe. It’s a win for the city, for the project, and for the growing movement toward nature-positive adaptation.
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