Floodplains: a natural system to preserve and restore

Christiansen, T., Azlak, M., Ivits-Wasser, E., & Völker, J. (2020). Floodplains: a natural system to preserve and restore (European Environment Agency, ed.). Europäische Union / Amt für Veröffentlichungen. https://doi.org/10.60810/openumwelt-3899

Abstract english

Floodplains are part of Europe's natural capital, covering 7 % of the continent's area and up to 30 % of its terrestrial Natura 2000 site area. Studies have shown that 70-90 % of floodplains have been environmentally degraded. The objective of this work is to showcase that natural floodplains support achieving multiple EU policy objectives. More specifically to show that natural and restored floodplains provide an alternative to structural measures for providing flood protection, and at the same time support achieving higher quality ecosystem service like improved water quality, improved conditions for biodiversity conservation and improved recreational value. Quelle: https://www.eea.europa.eu