Conflicting ecosystem services within coastal natural hydrosystems. The case of Louros-Arachthos-Amvrakikos, W. Greece.

A major problem faced by European coastal zones is the lack of understanding for the complex cross-littoral interactions between major anthropogenic activities. This shortcoming results generally in single-sector management of coastal water resources and water-related ecosystem services instead of a multi-sector ecosystem-based management approach. The above problem becomes more pronounced when conflicts arise between all involved ecosystem services.

The study site involves a coastal natural and artificial hydrosystem in the Region of Epirus (NW Greece) that incorporates: (a) irrigation management through a complex network of surface canals; (b) an important water transfer infrastructure; (c) upstream-located hydropower dams that utilise surface water resources; (d) two river basins (Louros and Arachthos) that are hydraulically connected with the underlying aquifer system and discharging into the sea; (e) a karstic aquifer that supports both surface water resources as well as anthropogenic demands (drinking water supply and irrigation); and (f) a sensitive marine ecosystem (Amvrakikos) as final receptor that is highly depended on upstream water quantity and quality.

This research aims to provide an ecosystem service analysis through the identification and characterisation of all involved socio-economic and environmental processes that link land- and sea-based economic and human activities.