A review of the functionalities of 11 integrated buffer zones (IBZ) located in Denmark, Great Britain and Sweden has recently been published. The IBZs under investigation were established between 2012 and 2014 at five locations in Denmark, Great Britain and Sweden. Each IBZ consisted of two compartments: an aquatic part called a ditch or pond and an infiltration zone planted with trees, either Alnus glutinosa (alder; all sites) or Salix viminalis (willow; GB only).

The authors discuss the functionality of these buffer zones in terms of water storage (flood control), pollution control, biomass production and biodiversity; signifying the many ‘side-effects’ of buffer zones. The authors also discuss strategies to improve the functionality of the IBZs further.

Reference (Biowater researchers in bold):

Dominik Zak; Marc Stutter; Henning Jensen; Sara Egemose; Mette Vodder Carstensen; Joachim Audet; John Strand; Peter Feuerbach; Carl Hoffmann; Benjamin Christen; Sandra Hille; Mads Knudsen; Jenni Stockan; Helen Watson; Goswin Heckrath; Brian Kronvang  2018. An assessment of the multi-functionality of integrated buffer zones in NorthWest Europe.
doi: 10.2134/jeq2018.05.0216; https://dl.sciencesocieties.org/publications/jeq/justpublished

Feature photo by Brian Kronvang.