Challenges and opportunities in restoring European free-flowing rivers
Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries · Wageningen University & Research · +3 more institutions
Abstract
Free-flowing rivers (FFRs) across Europe hold high ecological value and clear economic benefits. They support biodiversity by providing habitats for a wide range of aquatic and terrestrial species and strengthen local economies through sustainable practices while reducing the need for costly artificial flood control and water treatment. Rivers also carry deep cultural meaning for European communities, shaping identity, belonging, and wellbeing. Given this ecological, economic, and cultural weight, we argue that safeguarding remaining near-natural or pristine rivers should be the first priority, alongside restoring degraded systems, where meaningful gains are feasible. Herein, we review definitions, restoration…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 204.39
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 103
Authors
6- TSTwan StoffersCorresponding
Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Wageningen University & Research
- ASAnn-Kristin Schultze
Ministry for Environment, Agriculture, Conservation and Consumer Protection
- TEThomas Ehlert
Federal Agency for Nature Conservation
- LKLaura Kaiser
Federal Agency for Nature Conservation
- MSMathias Scholz
Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research
Topics & keywords
- Safeguarding
- Biodiversity
- Stakeholder
- Flood myth
- Ecosystem services
- Restoration ecology
- Flood control
- Value (mathematics)