Turbo-charging the Ecohydrology paradigm for the Anthropocene

Abstract

Although there are arguments over when it started there is a general view we are now living in the Anthropocene, characterized by rapid and unpredictable change. In this new geological age, we have, or are in danger of, exceeding a number of planetary boundaries, including freshwater availability, biodiversity, climate change and nitrogen pollution. Ecohydrology, as a blend of the water and ecological sciences has a major role to play in helping to understand and manage these new complexities in our environment. The science base of Ecohydrology has been strengthened by recent developments, especially the WBSR approach (Water; Biodiversity; (ecosystem) Services; Resilience) and the linked principles of ecology, water and ecological engineering. While this is having a major impact of the effectiveness of Ecohydrological applications, more can be achieved through adding socio-cultural perspectives, and understanding the role of ecosystem engineers. Providing Ecohydrology blends hard and soft engineering with contributions from cultural diversity and evolving concepts in ecology, it has a key role to play in framing environmental policies in the C21st. Currently, the world's governments have agreed that biodiversity and water security are key ingredients for sustainable development in the 2030 development agenda and its sustainable development goals (SDGs). Delivering that agenda needs an appropriate science-based approach dealing with water and biodiversity sustainability in an integrated manner - and that approach is turbo-charged Ecohydrology.