Mutual learning about Nature-based Solutions - co-creation of biofilter, paddock and green roof

Abstract

This article explores mutual learning as part of a process of co-creating nature-based solutions - a biofilter, a green roof, and a horse park. Nature-based solutions are located in Tampere and are part of the EU project Unalab. The research has been conducted from within the pilot project and it has focused on concrete situations of learning. This study confirmed that mutual learning is the most important achievement of co-creation and should be clearly set also as a goal of co-creation. Creating a shared vision is important in the early stages of a project. Mutual learning enhances equality between participants and creates space for managing the complexity of nature-based solutions. If co-creation focuses too much on practical implementation planning instead of learning, the views of the experts will be emphasized and the citizens' views will remain marginal. Many urban actors also have the capacity to design nature-based solutions, but this requires more targeted methods of co-creation. The best progress was made when co-creating with a small and flexible group from the city, together with key stakeholders of the demonstration. Site visits and personal conversations developed a common will and commitment. In large planning groups, negotiations between institutions made implementation difficult.