Use and management
Freshwaters are used in many ways: as a drinking water supply, for industrial transportation and for recreation. All these functions, also referred to as ecosystem services, can only be ensured if rivers and lakes are in a good ecological state. Since its introduction in 2002, the Water Framework Directive has called for just that. And yet water is a scarce resource in many regions of the world. The growing pressure caused by mining, industry, hydroelectric power production and agriculture affects water quality and the passage of freshwaters. At IGB, we develop concepts for the future-oriented management of freshwater resources for the welfare of humans and nature. We investigate how anthropogenic influences affect freshwaters, and how lakes, flowing waters and wetlands can be used sustainably and revitalised efficiently.
Related News
Selected publications
Causes of macrophyte mass development and management recommendations
In field experiments the authors investigated why mass developments of macrophytes occur and what the consequences of removing them are. The evaluation of different management approaches showed that the "do nothing" option can also be considered when dealing with aquatic plants.
Impact of the Russia–Ukraine armed conflict on water resources and water infrastructure
The ongoing war in Ukraine is having multiple impacts on the country’s water sector. In addition to the horror of the direct consequences of war, the destruction of water infrastructure also carries long-term consequences and risks for the population, the environment and global food security.
Transience of public attention in conservation science
This article addresses the concept of attention transience applied to conservation, discusses its major drivers and mechanisms, and provides an overview of conservation issues for which this phenomenon is particularly relevant. Attention transience only leaves a brief window of opportunity to focus public awareness and mobilize support for nature conservation.
Short-term effects of macrophyte removal on aquatic biodiversity in rivers and lakes
Study of the effects of macrophyte removal on phytoplankton, zooplankton and macroinvertebrates at five sites with highly variable characteristics repeating the same Before-After-Control-Impact design to disentangle general from site-specific effects. Macrophyte removal had negative effects on biodiversity, esp. on zooplankton and macroinvertebrates. It had positive effects on phytoplankton.
Isotope hydrology and water sources in a heavily urbanized stream
The authors studied Isotopes in Berlin’s Panke catchment to understand stream flow sources. Groundwater dominated the upper catchment, but ~90% of flow in the lower catchment was treated waste water. High flows were generated from urban drains. The stream has unnatural hydrological and chemical regimes with restoration needed for improved ecology.
