Environmental services provided from riparian forests in the Nordic countries

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Forestry
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Riparian forests (RF) are crucial ecosystems along Nordic water bodies, covering over 2% of forest area.
• They perform essential ecological functions, receiving upslope inputs and supporting biodiversity.
• RF can store significant soil carbon but may also emit more greenhouse gases (GHG) than adjacent uplands.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the environmental services of Nordic riparian forests.
• To assess their role in water protection, terrestrial biodiversity, carbon storage, and GHG dynamics.
• To discuss the benefits and trade-offs of using RF as buffers against upland forest management impacts, such as clear-cutting.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of existing scientific literature.
• It synthesizes findings on the ecological functions and services of riparian forests in the Nordic region.
• The review focuses on impacts related to water quality, biodiversity, carbon, and greenhouse gas exchange.

Main Results:

• Forest buffers are effective in protecting water quality and aquatic life.
• Broader forest buffers (over 40 m) positively impact terrestrial biodiversity.
• The net effect of riparian forests on greenhouse gas exchange remains uncertain.

Conclusions:

• Riparian forests offer significant environmental benefits, particularly for water protection and biodiversity.
• Wider riparian forest buffers enhance ecological services.
• Further research is needed to clarify the role of riparian forests in greenhouse gas dynamics.