Sub-working group of BWG 2 – Freshwater Systems

1. Introduction & Objectives

This biome-type includes freshwater rivers and lakes. The total surface area is estimated at 6,713,000 square km, holding approximately 105,000 cubic km of freshwater. Lakes and rivers are of critical importance to human well-being through the supply of freshwater for human consumption. Lakes and rivers are also important sources of provisioning (food and water supply) and cultural (recreation and tourism) services. They also provide regulating services such as treatment of waste and purification of water. The critical nature of freshwater resources makes rivers and lakes especially vulnerable to degradation. Yet despite their importance, and vulnerability, there appears to be a paucity of ecosystem service valuation studies.

Objective: The objective of the Rivers & Lakes Working Group is to provide a platform for researchers and practitioners to exchange information and discuss ideas and experiences on Assessment of Ecosystem Services provided by (freshwater) rivers and lakes, and make the information available to a wider community of users.

2. Lead Team & Members

• Vacancy: if you are interested in leading this working group please contact Dolf de Groot.
• If you are interested in becoming a member of this Working group, please contact Dolf de Groot.

3. More Information

For more information about activities and outputs of this working group click on the following link:

• Activities & Outputs