Improved hydrological regime
Wetland restoration – water purification, biodiversity and climate benefits
Wetlands are among the most species-rich environments in Sweden and play a crucial role in water purification, climate work and flood protection. By recreating and restoring wetlands, peatlands, floodplains and lakes, Improve Aquatic LIFE contributes to healthier ecosystems and a more resilient landscape.
Background
Sweden’s wetlands have been greatly reduced over past centuries. Many have been drained for forestry and agriculture, leading to altered water flows, deteriorated water quality and decling biodiversity. At the same time, we know that wetlands are important for a wide range of ecosystem services that humans rely on: water purification, carbon storage, flood control and habitats for threatened species.
When wetlands disappear, water flows faster through the landscape. Nutrients and particles are no longer retained and flow directly into lakes and seas, contributing to eutrophication. Drained peatlands also emit large amounts of greenhouse gases. By restoring wetlands, we regain these crucia functions – benefiting both the environment and the climate.
What is Improve Aquatic LIFE doing to restore wetlands?
Within Improve Aquatic LIFE, we are working to restore wetlands, mires, floodplains and previously lowered lakes in several river basins. The aim is to improve water quality, strengthen biodiversity, store carbon and reduce climate emissions – while also making the landscape more resilient to droughts and flooding. In total, more than 800 hectares of land will be regain their natural water levels.
Wetland work in progress. Photo: Mathias Arnham.
Three main areas of action
1. Restoration and creation of wetlands
We restore or create wetlands nearrivers and coastal environments. Excavators are used to create water surfaces, flood zones and shoreline habitats that support a rich plant and animal life. Wetlands also act as natural filtration systems, trapping nutrients and sediments before reaching lakes and the sea.
2, Rewetting of bogs and peatlands
Drained peatlands are restored by plugging ditches and raising the water level. In this way, peatlands regain their vital function as carbon sinks and natural water reservoirs. Rewetting is a simple and cost-effective method that provides significant climate benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
3. restoration of floodplains and lowered lakes
Natural floodplains are recreated by removing soil and reconnecting them to adjacent rivers. This improves water flow dynamics, increases lateral connectivity and benefits biodiversity along shorelines and aquatic environments.
In three previously lowered lakes, outlets will be adjusted to restore more natural water levels. Measures will be adapted to local conditions and results of feasibility studies.