IGOT-ULisboa

Nature-based Solutions (NBS) “are defined as actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural and modified ecosystems, which address societal challenges eƯectively and adaptively”. NBS can address a range of societal challenges such as economic and social development, human health, or food security (Dunlop et al., 2024, p. 1). Urban vineyards as NBS may contribute to:
· Green spaces: landscape, activities near the nature, leisure time.
· Urban agriculture: area where grapes are grown for fruit and/or wine making.
· Preservation and regulation of natural resources, such as soil.
Urban agriculture must be seen as a way of learning the city (Yap & Anderson, 2025). Urban vineyards are a form of producing food in the cities, and spaces where local communities learn and practice agriculture. Beyond that, urban vineyards may be considered a powerful way of interconnecting people and nature. Urban vineyards in Cascais, Lisboa and Oeiras This abstract is based upon exploratory research. The work was designed on the conceptual framework above described. The study cases were the urban vineyards of Cascais, Lisboa and Oeiras (Lisbon region, Portugal). The research included: exploratory meetings with diverse stakeholders; reviews of literature and websites; compilation in the format of a proof of concept. It was observed that the stakeholders are public and private entities, such as city councils and companies. They all share strong commitment and engagement towards viticulture, from the grapes growing to the wine production. There are different models of exploring the vineyards. No matter the plots are developed on a private or public basis, it exists a participatory dimension. In practice, it means that local population may grow the vineyards themselves; or participate in the tasks of private and public vineyards (e.g. the harvest). In both cases, it was noted that there are always more people interested than places available. The vineyards also have a function of heritage preservation. There was a regional tradition of wine making which nearly disappeared over the centuries due to urbanisation. The vineyards and wine production are now being recovered. Within this context, the commercial and marketing purposes play a relevant role. In terms of contribution as NBS, the vineyards of the region hold the following values:
· Landscape as way of connecting to nature (e.g. observation of seasonal diferences, mental health and wellbeing)
· Learning and practising agriculture.
· Grapes and wine production - community and/or commercial.
· Preservation or introduction of biodiversity.
Due to the people’s interest, participation could be increased. Consequently, the vineyard area and the activities around can be enlarged. Furthermore, the vineyards of Cascais, Lisboa and Oeiras may be inspiration and example for policies and practices in other urban regions.