Amid the urgent climate and biodiversity crises, WORKS with Nature: Low Carbon Adaptation Techniques for a Changing World showcases 100 proven techniques that effectively adapt, mitigate, and restore both our communities and ecosystems, paving the way for a regenerative future.   

Central to these efforts are nature-based solutions, which draw from the harmonious coexistence between humans and the natural world. By integrating Indigenous knowledge and insights from global experts and dedicated professionals, WORKS serves as an inspiring platform for knowledge-sharing and accelerating impactful, positive change. 

WORKS with Nature was launched at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan last year. It serves as a supplement to the UN National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Technical Guidelines, offering countries additional support by sharing successful strategies and lessons learned from international case studies. Every member nation of the United Nations (UN) has committed to developing National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) by 2025. 

"Without some sort of guidance document explaining these strategies and details, many countries’ adaptation efforts will fall short," writes Pamela Conrad, ASLA, PLA, ASLA Biodiversity and Climate Action Fellow (2023-2025), and Founder, Climate Positive Design. 

This initiative was led by Conrad in collaboration with Kotchakorn Voraakhom, International ASLA and founder of Landprocess. Their work ensures that the guide serves as a practical tool for policymakers, designers, and communities looking to integrate sustainable, climate-resilient solutions into their national strategies. 

Nature-based solutions, such as restoring wetlands to manage flooding, implementing green roofs to combat urban heat, and developing sustainable urban forests, offer a cost-effective and scalable approach to climate adaptation. These strategies mitigate environmental impacts and provide economic and social benefits, making them a key component in the global response to climate change and biodiversity loss. 

At COP29, Conrad served as ASLA’s delegate and made the case for nature-based solutions. She stressed the need to integrate nature-based strategies into national policies and increase financing for these solutions.  

Conrad, alongside Kotchakorn Voraakhom, introduced Works with Nature through a workshop for global policymakers in the Blue Zone—the core delegate area of the conference. Organized by the UNFCCC, Climate Positive Design, ASLA, Landprocess, and IFLA, the event highlighted both the promise and the persistent challenges of implementing nature-based solutions.  

While recognition is growing, financial and structural hurdles remain. Works with Nature serves as a critical tool to bridge this gap, offering actionable strategies and fostering cross-sector collaboration to accelerate global climate action.