NbSAPI Launches to Standardize Data Sharing for Nature-Based Solutions
NbSAPI (Nature-based Solutions API) proudly announces the launch of its open API specification, designed to enable interoperability among tools that facilitate Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for both built and natural environments. By standardizing data-sharing mechanisms, NbSAPI aims to foster collaboration and innovation in addressing environmental challenges such as flood mitigation, drought resilience, urban heat reduction, and groundwater management.
Nature-based solutions are increasingly recognized as effective strategies for adapting to climate change while benefiting biodiversity and human well-being. However, the lack of standardized data exchange has been a major barrier to widespread implementation and scaling. NbSAPI addresses this gap by providing a unified framework that enables developers and technology providers to exchange data seamlessly across services and applications.
The key features of NbSAPI include the following:
o Standardized Data Sharing: Ensures interoperability by using a consistent data format.
o Adaptation Target Tracking: Enables querying and monitoring of adaptation targets across various domains and tools.
o Customizable Access Controls: Utilizes JWT-based authentication to protect sensitive data, giving users control over access.
o Seamless Integration: Compatible with FastAPI and other modern frameworks for easy adoption.
o Flexible Filters: Supports retrieval of data through bounding boxes, adaptation targets, and more.
Verification Tool for Trusted Implementations
To ensure transparency and alignment with the specification, the NbSAPI team has released the NbSAPI Verification Tool. This open-source utility helps organizations and developers verify that their implementations meet core specifications and data handling standards.
By running the verification suite, adopters can confirm API endpoint compliance with NbSAPI specifications, identify integration errors early in development, demonstrate a commitment to interoperability and data integrity and earn optional recognition as a verified adopter. The tool strengthens the growing NbSAPI ecosystem by promoting consistency and trust within the community.
In the meantime, NbSAPI is already being put into action. Geodesignhub, leader in geospatial planning and decision-support tools, has released the first public implementation of NbSAPI through their Local Climate Response App. This deployment enables structured, API-based access to climate adaptation projects utilizing NbS across urban and regional scales, showcasing how it can bridge planning workflows and data standards. Users can now search, analyze, and visualize local climate actions consistently and interoperably.
Voices from the Community
"With NbSAPI, we are creating a common digital language for nature-based solution data—one that makes it easier for tools, cities, to work together in tackling climate challenges. As the developer of the first implementation through our tree planting tool app, we're proud to demonstrate how open APIs can accelerate real-world action."
—Hrishikesh Ballal, Co-Maintainer of NbSAPI & Managing Director of Geodesignhub
"There is an urgent need to build free, open tools to maximise the reach of Nature-based solutions; by allowing solution providers and cities to interoperate and to help shape these tools, we hope to drive the adoption of NbS by demonstrating the value of a common standard through NbSAPI."
—Stephan Hügel, Project Co-lead, NbSAPI
NbSAPI is designed with developers, urban planners, researchers, and environmental professionals in mind. By standardizing data sharing, it empowers users to build applications that effectively address environmental challenges, whether developing tools for flood risk assessment, urban heat reduction strategies, or broader sustainability initiatives.
As an open-source project, NbSAPI thrives on community engagement. Developers and organizations are encouraged to contribute to ongoing development, share feedback, and collaborate to enhance functionality. By fostering a collaborative environment, it aims to meet the dynamic needs of the NbS community. It's way more than just an API—it's a growing ecosystem of individuals and organizations committed to advancing nature-based solutions through technology.
If you are interested in getting involved, you can start by reading the documentation and start building, contributing on GitHub to shape future standards, joining community forums and discussions, collaborating with others to scale climate resilience and ecological sustainability. By taking these actions together, we can accelerate the deployment of innovative solutions that work with nature to meet today's biggest environmental challenges.
About NbSAPI
NbSAPI is an open API initiative dedicated to standardizing data sharing for nature-based solutions. By enabling interoperability among diverse tools and platforms, it supports the development and implementation of effective environmental strategies addressing critical challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and urban resilience.
Contacts:
Project coordinator:
Elisabete Teixeira—UMINHO
Project Management Officer:
Alice de Ferrari—ICONS
Project website: https://nbsinfra.eu/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nbsinfra/
Provided by iCube Programme
