Research team
Expertise
Dr. Staes Jan has been working at the Ecosystem Management Research Group since 2002. In 2002-2004 he developed (and applied) a concept and methodology for the elaboration of river basin management plans. He quickly specialized in using geographical information systems (GIS) to develop spatial analysis tools and methods. To guide the application of the concept on two other basins, he was contracted for 6 months as a civil servant for the Flemish administration for environment, nature and energy. He returned to the university and became involved in the teaching and training program for the chair on Integrated Water Management (IMDO). This was combined with several research projects in the field of integrated water management. In 2006 he started Collaborative Research with the Department of Hydraulics (University of Leuven) on hydrological effects of ecosystem management and rewetting. This new expertise resulted in his involvement in the ADAPT project (2005-2009), funded by the Belgian Science Policy Office (BELSPO). The ADAPT project aimed to develop an integrated decision tool for adaptation measures, with a focus on adaptation to extreme floods. During the course of the project, Jan Staes applied for an interdisciplinary research network project, called SUDEM-CLI (2008-2010) “Impact of climate change on river hydrology and ecology: A case study for interdisciplinary policy oriented research”, which was also funded by BELSPO. In 2009, the Policy preparation division of the Flemish Administration for Environment, Nature and Energy of ecosystem services commissioned a project entitled “Economic Valuation of Ecosystem Services for Societal Cost Benefit Assessments” The project resulted in a manual and a web-based application called “Nature Value Explorer”. The development of the Nature Value Explorer has been a pivotal moment for further research on ES in the Flemish Region. Jan Staes was involved in the application and execution of many other ES- research projects such as BEES “BElgium Ecosystem Services: A vision for society–nature interactions”; ECOFRESH: “ECOsystem services of FRESHwater systems” and ESSENSE “Mapping regulating Ecosystem Services using remote SENSing imagery”, which were all funded by BELSPO. Jan Staes was the main researcher from ECOBE in the SBO project CcASPAR “climate change and changes in spatial structures in Flanders” (2009-2013). In this project, Jan Staes was able to research on the development of Ecosystem based Adaptation concepts, linking ecosystem services to spatial planning and climate adaptation. Since 2009, Jan Staes has also been a major force behind the application for a large ES-research project ECOPLAN “Planning for Ecosystem Services”. ECOPLAN developed spatially explicit information and tools for the assessment of ecosystem services and the evaluation of functional ecosystems as a cost-efficient and multi-purpose strategy to improve environmental quality. Jan Staes was in charge for the day-to-day coordination of the IWT-SBO project ECOPLAN “Planning for Ecosystem Services” from 2012-2016. ECOPLAN developed the Scenario-Evaluator, a GIS model that facilitates the integration and consideration of ES in (spatial) planning projects. His team developed a high resolution, spatial explicit tool (QGIS plug-in) to assess the effects of spatial scenarios on 18 ecosystem services. At the moment he is WP-leader for the Horizon 2020 project “LANDMARK”. WP4 develops an EU-scale scenario assessment framework for soil functions and services. He is also the scientific lead for the INTERREG 2 SEAS project PROWATER “PROTECTING AND RESTORING RAW WATER SOURCES THROUGH ACTIONS AT THE LANDSCAPE SCALE”. The overall objective is to build resilience against droughts (and extreme precipitation events) by enhancing infiltration and water retention capacity of landscapes in regions of strategic importance for drinking water production.
ADMIRE
Abstract
The main objective of the ADMIRE (''adding mire'') project is to reassess the importance of peat in the Flanders-Netherlands border region in the light of its ecosystem services and to improve the condition of these important peatlands in the region. The ecosystem service 'biodiversity' is central to this project, together with the service 'climate mitigation'. The ADMIRE project aims to address the selected project areas (see below) and apply appropriate restoration and management, as well as going broader by establishing and sustaining a collaboration with stakeholders in the various transition areas (areas adjacent to the project areas but not managed and owned by the project partners). The approach to research, restoration and management from both the project areas and the transition areas ensures a landscape approach. The focus areas for research in the Flemish Region are "de Laakvalleien", "Vallei van de Zwarte Beek", "Kleine Netevallei (deelgebieden De Zegge, Groot-Schupleer en Zwarte Vos)". The UAntwerpen team will focus on WP3 - Inventory, monitoring and landscape ecological system analysis. The ADMIRE project aims to address the selected project areas (e.g. in the Kleine Nete basin) and apply appropriate restoration and management, as well as going broader by establishing and sustaining a collaboration with stakeholders in the various transition areas (areas adjacent to the project areas but not managed and owned by the project partners). The approach to research, restoration and management from both the project areas and the transition areas provides a landscape approach. Other special ecosystem services such as water supply, water purification and water buffering are also currently under pressure as water becomes an increasingly scarce commodity. Moreover, in case of drought, the risk of irreversible damage is high. At the same time, peatlands themselves offer an important part of the solution against the prevailing drought and flood problems. After all, non-dewatered peatlands show a strong sponge effect, delaying peak discharges during extreme rainfall and reducing the risk of flooding.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Sustainable use of sand in nature-based solutions (SUSANA).
Abstract
SUSANA is an interdisciplinary research project on the use of sand in nature-based solutions for coastal safety. Rising sea levels are drawing increasing attention to nature-based solutions, such as the construction of dunes in front of dykes. The intention is that these solutions not only protect us from flooding, but also provide other ecosystem services, such as a pleasant environment for recreation, increased biodiversity, reduced sand nuisance behind the dunes, etc. However, these solutions also require a lot of sand, while sand resources in the North Sea are rapidly depleting. Moreover, sand extraction also has an impact on the marine ecosystem. The SUSANA project (Sustainable use of sand in nature-based solutions) aims to develop a coupled model to weigh the pros and cons of such solutions. This model can help develop a long-term strategy for sustainable use of sand in nature-based solutions. The project thereby focuses on two aspects of sustainability: (re)using sandy material with lower quality; and minimising the effects of sand extraction. The specific research questions within this project are: > To what extent can alternative sand sources also provide the necessary ecosystem functions and services within a dune-for-dike? > What is the impact of different sand extraction regimes on the ecosystem functions and services of the soil ecosystem on the different sandbanks, both at the extraction site, and on the more distant valuable gravel beds? On this basis, a coupled ecosystem services model will be developed, allowing us to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of, on the one hand, the construction of a dune-by-dike, and, on the other hand, the sand extraction associated with it.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
- Co-promoter: Ysebaert Tom
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Developing a spatial planning policy based on ecosystem services
Abstract
In open space, nature, agriculture, water and recreation together form a whole that emphasizes the usefulness and necessity of open space. The open, unpaved space provides (breathing) space, peace and quiet in our highly built-up province, enhances the qualities of the landscape and can be responsible for providing numerous ecosystem services: biodiversity, food production, water storage, pollination, recreation, CO2 capture, ... The 'offensive open space' strategy is twofold. The first pillar is to focus on safeguarding the core areas of agriculture, nature and water. Within these core areas there is a need for cohesion and well-structured space in which the various sectors can function and grow optimally. The second pillar is the interweaving of nature, agricultural production, sustainable water management and recreation, from very limited to very extensive. After all, nature, agriculture, water and recreation have much in common. Moreover, open space today is too scarce to continue seeing the various managers as separate worlds. Integrated, they are in a much stronger position to counterbalance urbanization pressures and raise awareness of the importance of open, unpaved space. As a more conscious use of leisure time gains importance, recreation becomes an important partner within this strategy. Overall goal: The overall goal of this assignment is to provide a spatial translation of the "offensive open space" strategy. We will look for a way to value/valorize open space so that open space players can take a stronger position and be on a par with players within the built environment. Through an integrated approach, the managers of open space (nature, water, agriculture, recreation) want to push their interests forward and, as a robust space, provide sufficient counter pressure to urbanization pressures. Because of the more separate and sectoral approach in the past, the achievement of certain goals and the need for (sufficient) space for water, nature, agriculture and recreation, the managers of open space sometimes have contradictory nuances and it is high time to look for a way to jointly put forward the importance of preserving and strengthening open space. In addition, the brief should also give us insight into the diverse appearance of open space so that we can preserve and enhance the uniqueness and character of open space and approach it in a differentiated way. Not every location in open space has the same characteristics and thus they must be approached in a specific way. In addition, the assignment should also give us insight into the diverse appearance of open space so that we can preserve and enhance the uniqueness and character of open space and approach it in a differentiated way. Not every location in open space has the same characteristics and thus they must be approached in a specific way. In addition, we are looking for answers about the possibilities of interweaving (nature, water, agriculture and recreation) within the open space. Where is interweaving possible, where can open space managers get their own space? Can we determine possibilities or degrees/grades of interweaving, linked to a type of environment within diverse open space? The research should look from the ecosystem services for an appreciation of open space, for a possible visualization of the differentiated occurrence and different possibilities of interweaving in open space.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Climate neutral agriculture through sustainable carbon farming (C-Farms).
Abstract
C-Farms will develop a new innovation concept to transform agricultural land into a sustainable carbon sink, through the pioneer joint application of multiple soil-based negative emission techniques (NETs): enhanced silicate weathering, biochar application and soil organic carbon stabilization, re-valorizing silicate-containing- and organic waste streams. The focus on these particular NETs is motivated by the potential win-win situation in agro-based enhanced weathering systems: a.o. crop yield and quality can be improved, while CO2 is actively captured from the atmosphere. C-Farms will investigate how current agricultural practices can be adapted to increase soil C sequestration, while maximizing ecosystem services to society, and will engage with relevant stakeholders to co-create a first pioneer field pilot for large scale deployment. To achieve its ambition, C-Farms will implement an unprecedented experimental investigation of combined soil-based NET techniques, and conduct a coupled environmental, techno-economic and social impact assessment of the different NETs used. This will be complemented with specific research on the potential of activating silicates to enhance and accelerate C sequestration, while reducing CO2 emissions from a point source. C-Farms' ambition to perform strategic research to develop climate solutions in agriculture, fits perfectly within the Flemish ambition to invest in techno-economical solutions to climate change. For the stakeholder transfer of the results, rather than waiting until the project is finalized, we propose a pro-active approach, in order to identify opportunities for follow-up R&D&I at a very early stage (horizon scanning). To this end, multiple workshops and a joint field pilot will be initiated, always with a prime implementation aim and focusing on post-project valorisation and implementation. A key outcome of C-Farms is the development of a policy implementation roadmap for NETs in agriculture.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Eringing nature back — biodiversity-friendly nature-based solutions in cities (BiNatUr).
Abstract
The BiNatUr project will explore the role of biodiversity and its linkages with regulating ecosystem services (ES) in urban aquatic nature-based solutions (aquaNBS), and its overall aim is to improve the planning, building, restoration, and management of aquaNBS, supporting the transformation to climate-smart, biodiversity-friendly, and sustainable cities. BiNatUr will explicitly focus on four main research questions: • How are biodiversity and ES of aquaNBS mediated by social, ecological, and technological factors? • Does this vary among cities in different regions of Europe? • How does biodiversity influence the regulating ES provided by aquaNBS? • How can urban planning effectively design, manage, and monitor the biodiversity and regulating ES of aquaNBS?Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Schoelynck Jonas
- Co-promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Blue-Green strategies for climate change adaptation (TURQUOISE).
Abstract
TURQUOISE is an interdisciplinary research project on the potential of blue-green strategies for climate adaptation. To properly plan, implement and scale up blue-green solutions, more knowledge is needed on the one hand about the effectiveness (or side-effects) of measures both at local and larger scales and on the other hand how much is needed to reduce drought risk to an acceptable level. In the period between 2017 and 2020, the Flemish Region has experienced prolonged periods of drought. These droughts have led to serious problems, which made it clear that we are insufficiently prepared for water scarcity and drought. A proactive, ecosystem-based approach to increase water availability is needed. In practice, it has proved to be challenging to understand how to best plan, implement and scale blue-green solutions. Little is known about 1) the effectiveness (or side-effects) of these measures on a larger scale and 2) how much is needed to reduce the drought risk to an acceptable level. Most initiatives are driven from a sectoral viewpoint, leading to missed synergies and opportunities. This results in fragmented visions and implementations, and ultimately a non-resilient water landscape. TURQUOISE therefore aims to co-create and field test a decision-support framework to facilitate planning and increase the implementation rate of blue-green adaptation strategies. The decision-support framework is composed of an indicator set, target values, design guidelines, a technoeconomic impact assessment and identification of governance processes and implementation levers. The decision-support framework allows to quantify how robust a geographic area is to drought, how much the robustness has to be improved to lower the risk of water scarcity to an acceptable level and what blue-green investments are needed to achieve the robustness targets. The four blue-green solutions addressed in TURQUOISE are the restoration of (former) depressional wetlands, controlled hydraulic (drainage) systems, field infiltration ponds and infiltration reservoirs with active intake from rivers for irrigation and groundwater recharge. The decision-support framework is codeveloped and validated in four pilot sites where the implementation of blue-green strategies is ongoing.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Meire Patrick
- Promoter: Staes Jan
- Co-promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
City-centered approach to catalyze nature-based solutions through the EU Regenerative Urban Lighthouse for pollution alleviation and regenerative development (UPSURGE).
Abstract
Climate change is one of the most important worldwide challenge that humanity face, especially concerns to cities. Urban areas play a critical role, concentrating 80% of world production, consuming 70% of the available energy, and representing the largest polluting emitters, however they are also the main scenarios for social innovation (Seto et al., 2017). Major international initiatives, such as Horizon Europe and the European Green Deal, have set their objective to promote a systemic change and transformation of cities in order to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 (EC, 2020). UPSURGE provides a new development model for cities centred on Nature Based Solutions for renaturing urban spaces to address the challenge of carbon footprint and cities air pollution. UPSURGE bridges the gap between the existing knowledge based on Nature Based Solutions and their step-by-step practical implementation for regenerative development of cities focusing on air pollution alleviation and climate neutrality. To help European cities in this process, USURGE will provide an EU Urban Regenerative Lighthouse to serve as a reference framework and a reference network to accelerate, transfer and upscale the use of NBS and mainstream them into the agenda of urban policies through co-creation and co-design processes with citizens and other stakeholders. UPSURGE will provide fit-for-problem NBS together with supportive digital, and governance solutions for urban space regeneration deployed and tested in five real life demo cities in Europe (Belfast, Breda, Budapest, Katowice and Maribor). The role of UAntwerpen in UPSURGE focuses on quantifying and modelling urban ecosystem services provided by green and blue infrastructure in cities. Through the application of different modelling approaches on real case studies, the main ecosystem services produced by these implementations will be identified and quantified, as well as their relevance and impact to meet local needs and face climate challenges will be recognized. Based on these results, efficient and small-scale urban NBS interventions will be explored to enrich gray infrastructures in the provision of ecosystem services for addressing existing local needs and demands.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Analysis of open space vulnerability for landscape park "De Merode"
Abstract
Landscape park de Merode is invaluable to Flanders. There is high ecological value, with numerous biodiversity hotspots. In addition to a rich heritage value, the area also provides numerous ecosystem services. The area is important for drinking water supply, with several important groundwater abstractions. Numerous wetland projects must also ensure that Lier and Aarschot are protected from flooding by retaining as much water as possible in the upper reaches. Due to its exceptional landscapes and the recreational connections between them, the area is a hotspot for recreation and tourism. The many forests and fens are important for climate mitigation. The brand "De Merode" stands like a house and is a catalyst for numerous initiatives and projects. But on the other hand, the Merode remains a patchwork quilt. However, ecological and recreational cohesion is under pressure from urbanization, agricultural intensification and infrastructure projects. For many species (and ecosystem services) it is not only important what happens within the nature cores, but also what takes place in between. A good matrix of landscape connections results in resilient open space that gives us more opportunities against climate disruption and the biodiversity crisis. This study paper analyzes the main open space functions (nature, agriculture, water, experience) and their role as carriers of open space. From a series of map data, it will demonstrate, among other things, which landscape functions in which place offer opportunities to develop, or are at risk of fading away. We will make an analysis of vulnerability to open space degradation based on current land use, zoning as well as the positioning of different zones within the larger open space.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Modeling impact hydrologic restoration measures in Black Brook Valley (pilot site Interreg Care-Peat).
Abstract
Essentially, the client, Natuurpunt Beheer, wants to be able to estimate the impact of the planned recovery measures in the valley of the Zwarte Beek as part of the Interreg Care-Peat project, based on a simplified hydrological model. In other words, we want to simulate the effect of the measures on the degree of vernalization of the valley. Care-Peat is an Interreg North-West Europe (NWE) project with 12 partners working together to reduce carbon emissions and restore the carbon storage capacity of different types of peatlands in Northwest Europe. The main partnership consists of 7 knowledge institutions and 5 nature organizations from Belgium, France, Ireland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Together with 7 subpartners and 41 associated partners, we develop and test new techniques and socio-economic strategies for carbon reduction.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Support for economic aspects of measures and policy options regarding biodiversity
Abstract
This project support the Federal Government of Belgium with economic aspects, policy measures, policy instruments and policy options regarding biodiversity. In this contest, the economic valuation of ecosystem services can be of importance.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Passel Steven
- Co-promoter: Compernolle Tine
- Co-promoter: Cools Jan
- Co-promoter: Staes Jan
- Co-promoter: Van Schoubroeck Sophie
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Protecting and restoring raw water sources through actions at the landscape scale (PROWATER).
Abstract
The cross-border project PROWATER stands for 'protecting and restoring raw water sources through actions at the landscape scale', and contributes to climate adaptation by restoring the water storage of the landscape via 'ecosystem-based adaptation measures'. Examples of this are forest conversion, natural water retention or restoration of soil compaction. These interventions increase resilience against droughts and floods and benefit water quality and biodiversity. During the next years project partners in Flanders, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom will carry out various exemplary projects on site and will showcase them to the public. The benefits of the measures will be identified so that a 'Payment for Ecosystem Services' model can be developed. Based on this model, organizations that take measures to combat water scarcity can receive compensation. In return, they provide services to society by improving the quality of the living environment. Finally, the project wants to close the information gap with policy and the water user, by developing a vision to tackle water scarcity and drought risks in the long term.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Meire Patrick
- Co-promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Green roofs and walls as a source for ecosystem services in future cities (ECOCITIES).
Abstract
Green roofs and walls are considered to be important suppliers of ecosystem services and contribute to a healthier and more biodiverse environment. However, this has never been investigated in a comparative and integrated way for different types of green walls and roofs, which hampers an optimal implementation of these systems. In the framework of the EcoCities project we will perform exactly such an integrated and comparative study. EcoCities will develop and assess approaches for using green walls and roofs to (i) reduce urban pollution, (ii) optimize element cycles, (iii) mitigate water and climate extremes, (iv) enhance urban nature conservation and pollination and (v) improve both mental and physical health of citizens. It will provide a sound evidence base for urban green planning and implementation, exploring the potential for innovation in better linking environmental, social and economic ecosystem services (ES). The study entails an in-depth comparison for all ES listed above between different (regarding plant species and substrate composition) systems of both existing and experimental green walls and roofs. This will lead to an estimation of the relative value of each system in the framework of the ES it provides. For all systems, monetary benefits and costs will be calculated, also taking into account the spatial scale at which these systems are applied. In the second half of the project's duration, the (preliminary) results will already be applied in a number of different test cases in at least four Flemish cities. Ultimately, a scenario assessment tool will be developed by (UA ECOBE Jan Staes) and made publicly available, which can be used by stakeholders (local governments, companies, private persons) to deliberately choose the type of system required for the ecosystem service(s) they aim at in a particular area. The same tools will support policy makers in their decisions towards a sustainable and healthy development of urban areas.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Land Management: Assessment, Research, Knowledge base (LANDMARK).
Abstract
LANDMARK is a pan-European multi-actor consortium of leading academic and applied research institutes, chambers of agriculture and policy makers that will develop a coherent framework for soil management aimed at sustainable food production across Europe. The LANDMARK proposal builds on the concept that soils are a finite resource that provides a range of ecosystem services known as "soil functions". Functions relating to agriculture include: primary productivity, water regulation & purification, carbon-sequestration & regulation, habitat for biodiversity and nutrient provision & cycling. Trade-offs between these functions may occur: for example, management aimed at maximising primary production may inadvertently affect the 'water purification' or 'habitat' functions. This has led to conflicting management recommendations and policy initiatives. There is now an urgent need to develop a coherent scientific and practical framework for the sustainable management of soils. LANDMARK will uniquely respond to the breadth of this challenge.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Meire Patrick
- Co-promoter: Staes Jan
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project