Nature-based solutions: Restoring Bällstaån

Restoring Bällstaån. Exploring nature-based solutions for eutrophication remediation.

By Mathilda Lindström and Emma Hermansson

In an era of growing urbanization, maintaining clean and sustainable water environments is crucial for ecosystem health and human well-being. Bällstaån, a stream in Järfälla municipality, faces ecological and chemical challenges due to eutrophication, toxins, and
physical factors, hindering the attainment of sustainable development goals. Nature-based
solutions (NbS) have gained recognition as an effective approach to addressing
eutrophication and as a means to achieving the SDGs. The aim of this project is therefore to
explore possible NbS for eutrophication remediation in Bällstaån. The exploration involves
identifying what type of NbS can contribute to mitigating eutrophication effects and
examining the factors influencing their implementation and suitability for Bällstaån through
literature reviews, site analysis and interviews. The results show that various NbS can
effectively address eutrophication in Bällstaån. Explored solutions include constructed
wetlands, buffer strips, phytoremediation, and biomanipulation. Constructed wetlands and
buffer strips emerge as more tested options, with phytoremediation and biomanipulation
requiring further investigation. Due to limited space in and around Bällstaån, buffer strips are
deemed preferable. The study also concludes that there are several implementation factors
that are important to consider for successfully implementing NbS. These include considering
site-specific complexities, ensuring stakeholder participation and collaboration, prioritizing
and planning for maintenance and evaluation, as well as reviewing costs, multi-functionality,
and alternative solutions.