Empowering Urban Resilience: URBREATH Training Mission II to Certify European Nature-Based Solutions Managers
In the face of climate change and biodiversity challenges, cities across Europe are stepping up to integrate Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) into urban development. The Training Mission II is here to equip professionals with the tools, knowledge, and certification to lead these efforts. This mission aims to empower up to four staff members per city to become certified European Nature-Based Solutions Managers.
What is the Training Mission II?
The Training Mission II is a comprehensive program that focuses on equipping participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to implement NBS effectively. The mission brings together experts from Fraunhofer, South Pole, TalTech, Polimi, and the University of Stuttgart to provide a multidisciplinary learning experience.
The program spans multiple modules, each designed to address a critical aspect of urban planning, stakeholder engagement, and innovative financing for NBS. By the end of the training, participants will have a holistic understanding of NBS strategies and the tools to implement them successfully in their cities.
Structure of the Program
Introduction & Knowledge
(16.01.2025 | 23.01.2025)
The program kicks off with sessions led by Fraunhofer and the University of Stuttgart, setting the stage for what’s to come. Participants will explore the basics of NBS, the URBREATH project, and multidisciplinary approaches to climate-resilient urban planning.
Visioning, Spatial Planning, and Governance
(06.02.2025 | 13.02.2025 | 20.02.2025 | 27.02.2025)
Polimi leads this module, focusing on creating Urban Nature Plans (UNPs) in alignment with European policies like the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030. Sessions delve into governance structures, co-creation processes, and action planning to embed NBS in urban frameworks.
Stakeholder Engagement
(10.04.2025 | 24.04.2025 | 08.05.2025 | 15.05.2025)
Led by Fraunhofer and the University of Stuttgart, this module emphasizes strategies, platforms, and tools to foster stakeholder collaboration. Participants will learn to engage diverse groups effectively, a crucial skill for successful NBS implementation.
Innovative Procurement & Financing
(05.06.2025 | 12.06.2025 | 19.06.2025 | 26.06.2025)
South Pole spearheads this module, focusing on sustainable procurement and innovative financing models. Through case studies and expert insights, participants will explore ways to secure funding and attract private sector investment for NBS projects.
Digital Technologies
(04.09.2025 | 11.09.2025 | 18.09.2025 | 25.09.2025)
TalTech leads the final module, introducing cutting-edge technologies like VR, AR, and Urban Digital Twins. These tools empower participants to visualize scenarios, engage citizens, and enhance collaboration in NBS planning.
Synthesis & Feedback
(09.10.2025 | 16.10.2025 | 20.10.2025)
The program concludes with synthesis sessions to consolidate learning and prepare participants for the final test. This is also an opportunity to exchange ideas and provide feedback on the training experience.
Final Test
(13.11.2025)
The final assessment ensures participants have mastered the material. Certification as a European Nature-Based Solutions Manager awaits those who successfully complete the program.
This program is more than just training—it’s a movement to transform European cities into hubs of climate resilience and biodiversity. Participants will gain not only technical knowledge but also the leadership skills to drive change in their communities.