Umgebungsflüsse

Umgebungsflüsse, which translates to "environmental flows" or "ecological flows" in English, refers to the quantity, timing, and quality of water flows required to sustain freshwater and estuarine ecosystems, and the human livelihoods and well-being that depend on them. This concept moves beyond simply ensuring enough water for human use, such as irrigation or urban supply, and acknowledges the intrinsic need for natural flow variations to maintain the health and function of aquatic environments.

The necessity of environmental flows arises from the fact that rivers and other aquatic systems are dynamic. They have evolved to experience natural fluctuations in water levels, including floods and low flows, which are crucial for various ecological processes. These processes include sediment transport, nutrient cycling, habitat creation and maintenance for fish and invertebrates, and the support of riparian vegetation. When water is excessively abstracted or regulated without considering these natural patterns, ecosystems can degrade.

Implementing environmental flows involves understanding the specific needs of a particular river system. This requires scientific research to determine the appropriate flow regimes, often involving collaboration between scientists, water managers, and stakeholders. Solutions can range from releasing water from dams at specific times and volumes to managing abstractions from rivers and groundwater. The goal is to strike a balance between human water demands and the ecological requirements of aquatic ecosystems, ensuring their long-term health and resilience.