A geomorphological framework for providing ecosystem services in lowland rivers

Abstract

The publication of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA, 2005) has generated widespread scientific debate regarding the importance of linkages between ecosystems and human well-being. An ecosystem services approach has presented many challenges during its early stages of development; fundamentally the ability to classify and value an ecosystem and its services. By its complex nature, ecosystem service research requires an interdisciplinary approach.The thesis focuses on the role of geomorphology as a means to providing a framework for delivering ecosystem services in lowland rivers. The framework introduces a reach-scale analysis of how geomorphological functions (GF) help provide a platform for bio-physical interactions that deliver multiple ecosystem services in lowland rivers. The analysis will assess the influence of geomorphological functions (GF) in providing ecosystem services.
Understanding the links between „ecosystem services? and the functioning of ecosystems to human welfare is critical for a wide range of decision-making contexts (Fisher et al., 2008). River restoration provides a useful and practical technique for placing monetary costs to the functions that characterise geomorphologically diverse rivers, whilst allowing for a spatial understanding on how physical characteristics impact the delivery of multiple ecosystem services. Case studies help reveal other direct and indirect benefits associated with riverine environments.

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