Assessing policy and governance aspects for the implementation of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) to manage the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem (WEFE) nexus in a Mediterranean watershed

Addressing the vital intersection of Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus through the lens of policy and governance, this thesis marks a pivotal contribution to sustainable resource management and ecological resilience. It underscores the importance of harmonizing environmental stewardship with human development and well-being. Focused on the Pinios River Basin (PRB) in Thessaly, North-Western Greece, the study embarks on a thorough investigation of policy and governance frameworks essential for Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) within the WEFE Nexus. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, encompassing stakeholder questionnaires, interviews, and workshops, the research provides a comprehensive evaluation of governance structures, policy frameworks, and management practices related to NBS in the PRB, guided by the specialized framework developed by the University of Padova under the LENSES project. The analysis reveals a 76% effectiveness in 'Conducive Governance Arrangements,' highlighting the need for more streamlined responsibilities and participatory approaches. 'Supportive Policies' are notably effective, achieving a 100% score and demonstrating strong alignment with EU and national frameworks. However, the 'Supporting Policies' dimension, while solid at 75% effectiveness, requires enhancements to better serve human well-being and rights. High scores in 'Appropriate Regulatory Environment' and 'Technical Capacity' suggest a supportive climate for NBS in Greece, but also indicate a need for further specialization in NBS education. Significant gaps in 'Access to Finance' and 'NBS Management' emphasize the need for improved project management and financial legal frameworks. The study recommends establishing dedicated governance bodies, enhancing continuous education, and developing adaptive strategies for sustainable NBS. Concluding, the thesis calls for future research focused on the practical implementation of these recommendations, exploring innovative financing and measurement methods, and conducting longitudinal studies to assess the impact of governance changes on NBS practices, with potential applications extending from Greece to a global scale.