Indicator-based assessment of ecosystem services in the transboundary section of the Styr River based on hydrochemical water quality indicators
Abstract
Purpose. To test an indicator-based approach for assessing ecosystem services in the transboundary section of the Styr River based on water quality parameters.
Methods. Analytical, hydrochemical analysis, and ecological classification methods for surface water quality assessment.
Results. An indicator-based assessment of ecosystem services in the transboundary section of the Styr River was carried out based on hydrochemical water quality parameters for 2021–2025. It was found that, according to annual average values, most indicators correspond to Classes I–III, indicating a generally satisfactory state of the aquatic environment. Supporting ecosystem services are maintained at high and good levels, while regulating and provisioning services are predominantly at a satisfactory level. At the same time, systematic exceedances were identified for certain indicators, particularly nitrogen compounds and organic matter, indicating anthropogenic pressure and reduced efficiency of regulating ecosystem functions. The analysis of temporal dynamics revealed an increasing trend in ammonium concentrations and the occurrence of episodic peak values, reflecting instability in self-purification processes. A decreasing trend in BOD₅ values was observed, indicating partial improvement in certain ecosystem functions. Assessment based on block indices showed that, under average conditions, water quality corresponds to Class III (satisfactory, moderately polluted waters), whereas under worst-case conditions it shifts to Classes IV–V (poor and very poor, polluted and heavily polluted waters), indicating significant variability in ecosystem condition.
Conclusions. The application of the indicator-based approach enabled the integration of hydrochemical water quality parameters into the assessment of river ecosystem functioning. Uneven provision of ecosystem services was identified: despite an overall satisfactory average condition, periods of deterioration occur, indicating the ecosystem’s vulnerability to anthropogenic pressure. The results demonstrate that water quality indicators can be used to quantitatively interpret the level of regulating, supporting, and provisioning ecosystem services. The proposed approach can be applied to improve water resource assessment and management in transboundary river systems.
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References
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