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Project Code [2014-W-LS-5]
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Project title
Incorporation of Ecosystem Services values in the Integrated Management of Irish Freshwater Resources - ESManage
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University College Dublin (UCD)
Lead Applicant
Mary Kelly-Quinn
Project Abstract
The objective of this project is to harness the knowledge and tools required to embed an appreciation of ecosystem services and the ecosystems services approach into policy and decision-making for sustainable management of water resources, as required by the Water Framework Directive. The project objectives will be achieved through a synthesis of existing and new information from the physical/biological sciences and economics. This will be supported by consultation with key stakeholders. A thorough review of the literature related to the ecosystem services concept and synthesis of available information on Irish freshwaters will be compiled. Existing and new biological data will be analysed to investigate responses (thresholds, resistance) to stressors/drivers and links to ecosystem services. Scenario analysis will show how delivery of ecosystem services may be affected by changes in drivers. The results of the scenario analysis will be used to inform the economic valuation of future changes to the provision of key aquatic ecosystem services in Irish rivers. Finally, the output from the valuation will be used to develop a policy brief with recommendation on how the research findings (and more generally the ecosystem services approach) can best be embedded into policy and decision-making related to management of water resources. This project will produce reports relating to each of the workpackages including a stand-alone literature review and report on Irish freshwater resources in the context of ecosystem services. A total of 22 workshops will be held to engage stakeholders. A consolidated biological database will be assembled and a new computer tool incorporating ecological data will be developed for inclusion in the CMST package as an added-value. One PhD thesis, at least 12 peer-reviewed publications and several other communication outputs, including website, will be produced. The final outputs will be the technical and synthesis reports, and a policy brief.
Grant Approved
�493,232.29
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Water - Ecosystem services and sustainability
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/02/2018