A Large-Scale Nature-Based Solution in Agriculture for Sustainable Water Management: The Lake Karla Case

Abstract

This study demonstrates a new nature-based solution (NBS) project in agriculture, the ‘Karla’ reservoir in Central Greece, a unique example at European scale, of a lake ecosystem which was dried and is now restored with the purpose to maximize the efficiency of water provision in agriculture and biodiversity enhancement. In this article, we present: (a) The historical developments from the existence of the old natural Lake Karla until the reconstruction of the homonymous artificial reservoir, (b) the environmental and economic benefits that the new project delivers, and (c) the governance and management mechanisms that can ensure the efficient operation of the project. The analysis shows that the reconstructed Lake Karla can serve as a multi-purpose project to combat water scarcity, achieving a twofold crop yield production and respective agricultural income in the surrounding area, securing the coverage of the water supply needs of the closest city, improving the status of groundwater resources, developing a natural shelter for biodiversity and emerging recreation and touristic opportunities. At the same time, its construction and operation costs can be recovered, and the proposed governance plan can ensure the viability of the whole project inspiring similar multi-purpose water retention projects for investment in agriculture and the environment in southern Europe but also in other water scarce regions.