Swiss Lake Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

Project description

Objective

The SNALBES project seeks to transform how Switzerland studies and manages lake biodiversity. Together with local, cantonal and federal authorities, the team will develop methods to monitor biodiversity and carry out the first nationwide assessment of more than 200 lakes. These lakes will cover the full spectrum of human influence, from pristine alpine waters to those heavily affected by warming, intensive farming, urbanisation or invasive species such as the Quagga mussel.

The project will classify the ecological condition of the lakes, identify them as healthy or degraded, and analyse the drivers behind these outcomes. Based on this knowledge, the team will propose measures to restore lake health where needed. An economic survey will also determine how much the Swiss public is willing to invest in improving lake conditions.

Relevance

This project supports Switzerland in meeting national and international commitments to document and conserve biodiversity. It will provide a baseline for evaluating future management decisions and serve as a model for biodiversity surveys elsewhere. By highlighting both the ecological and economic value of lake biodiversity, the project aims to mobilise public and political support for protecting these iconic ecosystems.

Transdisciplinary Approach

SNALBES brings together natural and social scientists at Eawag with experts from the Federal Office for the Environment’s Water Division. The consortium also works with cantonal water authorities, NGOs and international networks. Through workshops and round tables, the project follows a co-creation process that integrates diverse knowledge, perspectives and priorities. This collaborative approach builds consensus and ensures that the methods and results are relevant and usable in practice. Findings will be communicated widely through a website, public events, fact sheets, reports and policy briefs.