Abstract:
Due to their ecological fragility and significant environmental, economic, and cultural values, marine island ecosystems have garnered considerable attention in recent years. However, climate change and unsustainable human activities have severely disrupted their structures and functions. Implementing measures for the protection and restoration of island ecology is crucial in improving these ecosystems. Nature-based solutions (NbS), an innovative strategy for addressing ecological and environmental challenges, play a pivotal role in conserving and restoring island ecosystems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the latest research progress on NbS in the context of island ecological protection and restoration. The findings highlight that NbS not only enhance biodiversity but also effectively improve the stability and sustainability of island ecosystems by emulating the ecological functions of natural systems. This paper elucidates the concept and principles of Nature-based Solutions (NbS), underscores the distinction between NbS and conventional infrastructure, and examines the advantages of its application in island environments. Through an evaluation of practical cases involving NbS for island ecological protection and restoration, it is evident that NbS not only enhances ecosystem resilience but also fosters sustainable development within local communities. The potential challenges and limitations faced by NbS in island ecosystems primarily encompass technological innovation, resource allocation, and social engagement. Ultimately, this paper advocates for enhanced cross-scale and multi-system collaborative management and international cooperation to facilitate the implementation of NbS, establish diverse financing mechanisms and scientific restoration technical standards, promote interdisciplinary integration as well as multi-stakeholder participation. These efforts aim to realize broader applications of NbS in offshore island ecological protection and restoration while contributing to the construction of a healthy and sustainable island ecosystem.