Macrophytes-based solutions as tools to halt the collapse of freshwater biodiversity, functions and benefits

Aquatic ecosystems worldwide are increasingly degraded by eutrophication, habitat loss, hydrological alterations, invasive species, and climate change. At the same time, macrophytes–widely regarded as eco-pillars of aquatic ecosystems–are gaining recognition as key components in Nature‑based Solutions (NbS). However, there remains a need to integrate, consolidate and disseminate evidence on macrophyte multifunctional roles, effectiveness and limitations. This paper aims to (i) position macrophyte-based interventions within the NbS framework; (ii) draw on exemplary global case studies to identify enabling and limiting factors, (iii) summarize the mechanistic through which macrophytes enhance the delivery of irreplaceable ecosystem benefits; and (iv) provide recommendations for scaling up effective macrophyte‑based restoration strategies. A synthesis of recent, high-quality studies (2020–2026) was conducted, encompassing experimental/field trials, reviews, and meta-analyses across diverse geographical contexts; not neglecting environmental, social, technical, and governance dimensions. Key findings indicate that macrophyte restoration significantly reduces nitrogen, phosphorus, and phytoplankton biomass. Improvements in water clarity, sediment stability, habitat complexity, and microbial community composition further contribute to ecosystem recovery. Restoration success, however, is highly dependent on site‑specific conditions; while common limitations include internal trophic load, extreme disturbances, inadequate long‑term monitoring, and socio‑institutional constraints. Macrophyte-based solutions (MbS) emerge as essential tools for achieving NbS objectives in aquatic ecosystem restoration. To maximize their effectiveness, such interventions must be grounded in thorough contextual assessments, employ adaptive management strategies, and ensure active stakeholder engagement, sufficient funding, and robust monitoring frameworks. Future efforts should recognize macrophytes not only as targets of restoration but also as powerful agents of ecological recovery.