Crossing the borders of flood risk adaptation and nature conservation: an insider's perspective on navigating a wicked problem-solution space

The interconnectedness of climate change and biodiversity challenges necessitates integrative approaches and cross-sectoral collaboration. Although this is widely acknowledged, it remains poorly understood how actors at the operational level can address multiple environmental challenges simultaneously. To close this knowledge gap, we examine the dynamics of cross-sectoral integration. We apply three dimensions of wickedness – contestation, complexity, and uncertainty – to deduce problems and solutions. These three dimensions constitute the empirical problem–solution space where actors strive to integrate problems and solutions across sectors. The integration of flood risk adaptation and nature conservation challenges in the Netherlands serves as a case study. Data were collected through participatory action research in a Community of Practice (CoP). Over a period of 2.5 years, the CoP brought together actors from flood risk and nature sectors. They sought integration by crossing borders, on maps, across sectors, and between projects. Contestation was triggered by diverging understandings of nature and flood risk. Systemic and organizational factors increased complexity which caused actors to feel confined. Nature-based solutions are seen as promising, but their effectiveness and legal procedures are uncertain. Our results indicate that cross-sectoral collaboration enlarges the problem–solution space. Therefore, integrative approaches require additional space for navigating wickedness. We confirm that collaborative learning and producing knowledge are essential for the convergence of wicked problem–solution spaces. The CoP provided actors with a sense of belonging and space for creativity and innovation. This allowed them to collectively learn about the wickedness of integrating flood risk adaptation and nature conservation. Cross-sectoral integration increases contestation, complexity and uncertainty.In our case, integration was hampered by false assumptions, sectoral practices and discourses.Collaborative activities were essential for understanding, navigating and converging wickedness.A community of practice provided a sense of belonging and space for innovation and creativity. Cross-sectoral integration increases contestation, complexity and uncertainty. In our case, integration was hampered by false assumptions, sectoral practices and discourses. Collaborative activities were essential for understanding, navigating and converging wickedness. A community of practice provided a sense of belonging and space for innovation and creativity.