Author(s): Lisa Waldenberger; Helmut Habersack
Linked Author(s): Helmut Habersack
Keywords: Freshwater Ecosystem Restoration Nature-based Solutions Ecosystem Services EU Water Framework Directive EU Nature Restoration Law
Abstract: Freshwater ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, clean water provision, climate regulation, and human recreation, yet they face severe threats from industrial pollution, urbanization, intensive agriculture, invasive species, and habitat fragmentation. The European Water Framework Directive (WFD) establishes the ecological status of water bodies as a key parameter for assessing and improving freshwater health. Despite advancements in ecological monitoring and assessment techniques, many member states have struggled to meet the WFD's primary objective of achieving "good status" for Europe’s waters. Restoration of freshwater ecosystems is complex and influenced by numerous challenges, including the long-term nature of ecological recovery, ecosystem complexity, lack of baseline data, and differing stakeholder perceptions of success. Socio-economic and ecological objectives often conflict, making it essential to integrate community involvement and balance diverse perspectives to enhance restoration outcomes. This study, conducted within the EU Horizon 2020 EcoAdvance project, aims to clarify the diverse definitions of success in freshwater restoration, examining how goals, regional priorities, and stakeholder perspectives shape project outcomes. By synthesizing insights through literature reviews, bibliometric research, and project analyses, EcoAdvance identifies key success factors and obstacles on a country-by-country basis. Our findings reveal that success in freshwater restoration is inherently multidimensional, with projects varying in their focus on biological outcomes, ecosystem services, or socio-economic benefits. EcoAdvance addresses these variations by establishing adaptable success criteria that balance short- and long-term goals, ensuring measurable and comparable outcomes. Through its inclusive framework, the project aligns priorities, minimizes conflicts, and amplifies the impact of restoration efforts across Europe, guiding strategic investments toward initiatives with the highest potential for ecological and socio-economic success.
Year: 2025