Bangkok, 26 March 2026 – Scaling Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in Southeast Asia depends on credible data and consistent evidence of impact. A robust Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) framework plays a critical role in ensuring NbS outcomes are measurable, comparable and investable, supporting not only climate mitigation and adaptation, but also water regulation, disaster risk reduction and community resilience across the region.

As part of the ASEAN-NbS Tool project, supported by the ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund, regional experts convened to strengthen the ASEAN NbS MRV framework. The discussion focused on refining indicators and data requirements that can improve how NbS impacts are tracked and evidenced across different national contexts.

“Since the launch of this project, we have developed a set of MRV indicators and data requirements to support a robust ASEAN NbS MRV framework. This consultation provides an important opportunity to validate these elements and strengthen their relevance across the region,” said Tomi Haryadi, Director for Food, Land and Water Programme at World Resources Institute (WRI) Indonesia, during the ‘Regional Technical Consultation Meeting on ASEAN NbS MRV Framework’ workshop in Bangkok.

With coordination support from the ASEAN Secretariat, the effort is led by WRI Indonesia in collaboration with the Southeast Asia Climate and Nature-based Solutions (SCeNe) Coalition, Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC), Spatial Informatics Group—Natural Assets Laboratory and Nanyang Technological University Singapore. The project aims to catalyse regional action to plan, monitor and scale NbS through more consistent and reliable data systems.

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Photo credit: WRI Indonesia

Building on earlier discussions held in February 2026, this engagement advanced the validation of MRV indicators and strengthened alignment on key components of the framework. Experts provided technical inputs on indicator relevance, data availability and governance considerations, as well as recommendations to integrate Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) principles into the framework design and implementation.

"Today’s discussion is an important step toward establishing a comprehensive NbS framework that enables systematic monitoring, reporting, and verification of impacts across Member States. Such a framework will support evidence‑based planning, continuous improvement, and the scaling of NbS across the region. A credible MRV system is vital for building confidence in NbS investments and ensuring comparability and transparency," said Anna De Palma, Climate and Environment Adviser of the UK Mission to ASEAN.

The discussion also highlighted practical considerations for applying the MRV framework at national and subnational levels, including data gaps, institutional readiness and opportunities for alignment with existing systems.

"The success of Nature-based Solutions depends greatly on our ability to measure, monitor, and demonstrate their impact. This is where MRV becomes critically important. Today’s workshop provides a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge, discuss practical approaches, and explore how a regional MRV framework for NbS can be developed and applied in the ASEAN context. We look forward to continued collaboration with partners to strengthen technical capacities, develop practical tools, and mobilise financing to scale up NbS in the region," said Dian Sukmajaya, Senior Officer, Food Agriculture and Forestry Division, Sectoral Development Directorate, ASEAN Economic Community Department (AECD) of the ASEAN Secretariat.

This process contributes to a stronger shared foundation for high-quality NbS data across Southeast Asia. By translating indicators into actionable evidence, the ASEAN NbS MRV framework is helping shift Nature-based Solutions from early-stage initiatives to scalable climate solutions, unlocking finance and strengthening regional resilience.
 

Gambar pratinju oleh WRI Indonesia