Challenges and opportunities in the use of ponds and pondscapes as Nature-based Solutions

Abstract

Ponds and “pondscapes” (networks of ponds) are crucial habitats for biodiversity and for delivering multiple benefits to humans, so-called “Nature’s Contribution to People”, such as climate mitigation and adaptation to climate change, creation, and maintenance of habitat for biodiversity, water purification, flood mitigation and cultural benefits (e.g., recreational possibilities). However, ponds are not often considered as Nature-based Solutions to provide all these benefits. In addition, there is insufficient knowledge on how to manage and restore ponds to maximise their role to increase the resilience of ecosystems and society to climate change. To facilitate improved implementation of ponds as Nature-based Solutions for the delivery of a wide range of Nature Contributions to People, it is important to generate and integrate biodiversity, ecosystems, societal, economic and policy knowledge. Hence, there is a need for evidence-based guidance to support the broader use of ponds. Here, we review the role of ponds and pondscapes in delivering Nature’s Contributions to People and provide an overview of the challenges and opportunities for their broader implementation as Nature-based Solutions. Finally, we propose a conceptual framework that can help the implementation of pond Nature-based Solutions, and that outlines future research needs.

Transforming sustainable aquaculture by applying circularity principles

“…[57][58][59] For extensive pond systems, some of these services (e.g., providing fertilisers and habitats for biodiversity) depend strongly on pond management practices and thus aquaculture activities. [60][61][62] Ecosystem services of marine aquaculture systems are also well documented, especially those provided by extractive marine species 63,64 such as nutrient removal by bivalves or seaweed. 65,66 Based on these ecological benefits, extractive aquaculture has been recommended as a way to restore natural ecosystems (i.e., restorative aquaculture 67 ) and could generate net positive environmental results.…”

“…This includes the role of fish ponds in retaining water, recycling organic nutrients, and providing fertilisers for adjacent crops 57–59 . For extensive pond systems, some of these services (e.g., providing fertilisers and habitats for biodiversity) depend strongly on pond management practices and thus aquaculture activities 60–62 . Ecosystem services of marine aquaculture systems are also well documented, especially those provided by extractive marine species 63,64 such as nutrient removal by bivalves or seaweed 65,66 .…”

Water-smart farming: review of strategies, technologies, and practices for sustainable agricultural water management in a changing climate in West Africa

“…Simultaneously, nature-based solutions bolster ecosystem resilience, indirectly benefiting agriculture by mitigating climate-related challenges. Nature-based solutions often promote biodiversity, facilitating natural pest control and pollination, which ultimately benefit crop health (Cuenca-Cambronero et al, 2023). Notably, water-smart farming practices, such as reduced chemical usage, align with biodiversity-enhancing principles.…”

Patterns and correlates in the distribution, design and management of garden ponds along an urban-rural gradient

“…Urbanisation has contributed greatly to the loss and degradation of freshwater ponds and wetlands (Burgin et al, 2016; Ehrenfeld, 2000; Kentula et al, 2004), with high rates of pond loss being particularly evident in Europe (Biggs et al, 2005; Smith et al, 2022; Wood et al, 2003), resulting in increased pond isolation (Thornhill et al, 2018). Small ponds and pond networks provide crucial ecosystem services – improving human well-being by providing aesthetic enjoyment and leisure, providing habitats for biodiversity, acting as carbon sinks, and mitigating climate change (Cuenca-Cambronero et al, 2023; Oertli et al, 2005). Yet, despite profound losses in this vital resource since the twentieth century, there are opportunities to increase the area of freshwater habitat in urban areas.…”