Nature-based solutions and their potential to attract the young generations

This study aims to explore how Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) are perceived by the young generations, and to see if NBS are capable of attracting young visitors. The young generations are generally considered as being more sensitive towards nature and sustainability issues. In this context, planning and developing NBS may prove to be a powerful instrument to raise the interest of young people towards formerly degraded urban area and ecosystems. The results of a survey focused on as specific area, involving 1,543 university students, demonstrate that gender is the factor that most influences the perception of NBS. Females tend to have a good knowledge and a positive perception of NBS, and they are also prone to visit NBS sites; in contrast, males emerge as a very heterogeneous group, with different levels of knowledge and perception of NBS, as well as different attitudes towards visiting NBS sites. The results of this study are expected to help decision-makers plan the development of NBS sites and target potential visitors. Further research on the topic is finally recommended.