Policy Abstract: Remediation of Eutrophic Water Bodies as a Nature-Based Solution for Climate Mitigation and Green Finance

This policy abstract highlights eutrophic lakes, reservoirs, and ponds as overlooked methane emitters, releasing more greenhouse gases than international aviation and shipping combined. It outlines how remediation measures including nutrient reduction, phosphorus inactivation, aeration, and biomass harvesting can abate up to 3 Gt CO₂e annually while restoring oxygen and nutrient cycles. Beyond climate mitigation, eutrophic remediation improves water safety, supports biodiversity, and enables phosphorus recovery, aligning with the EU Green Deal, Biodiversity Strategy 2030, and Nature Restoration Law. Recognizing it as a Taxonomy-aligned Nature-Based Solution would unlock sustainable finance instruments and lay the groundwork for future carbon credit methodologies.