Water Pollution is a Growing Problem—with a Nature-Based Solution

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Polluted Rivers and Streams are a Growing Problem

Over half of all rivers and streams in the United States have poor water quality, as rated by the EPA, with high levels of phosphorus, nitrogen, and sediment. High levels of nitrogen and phosphorus harm aquatic ecosystems promote algal blooms, which reduce oxygen levels in the water necessary for fish to survive.

with a Nature-Based Solution

A cost-effective methods of improving water quality, nature-based solutions can remove nutrient runoff from agricultural lands, and reduce stormwater loading to mitigate overflows from urban sewer systems.

• Riparian Stream Buffers

• Wetlands

• Detention Ponds

• Bioretention Ponds

Installing vegetated buffer strips around streams and restoring wetlands can dramatically reduce nutrient pollutants in waterways near farms and ranches.

How We Help

In the face of more extreme weather events, building resilient, sustainable infrastructure is critical to improving water quality and adapting to a changing climate. Earth Economics has conducted multiple studies of the benefits and costs of nature-based solutions for communities throughout the country, including:

• Investing in Urban Green Infrastructure

• Analysis for The Well Farm Project in Peoria, Illinois

• The Economic Impact of Greenville County’s Proposed Buffer Expansion on the Reedy River Watershed