The Nature-Based Paradigm Shift: Identifying and Overcoming Barriers to Sustainable Water Quality Solutions

This study investigates the barriers and opportunities for implementing nature-based solutions to improve water quality in the United States, utilizing a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected through key informant interviews (n = 27), focus group discussions, and an online survey (n = 167). The triangulation of these methods provided a comprehensive understanding of stakeholder perspectives across various sectors including water treatment plant managers, government officials, regulators, and landowners. Key themes include regulatory hurdles, funding challenges, and the necessity for robust water quality monitoring systems. Regulatory constraints were consistently identified as a primary barrier, highlighting the need for policy reforms to facilitate green infrastructure. Funding availability was another critical challenge, with stakeholders emphasizing the importance of new financing models and incentive-based programs. Continuous water quality monitoring to establish baselines and measure the impacts of restoration projects is also emphasized. Efforts to improve local policy and regulatory frameworks could significantly bolster watershed restoration practices, enhancing riverine water quality and providing broader environmental and social benefits.

As growing environmental pressures and aging gray infrastructure challenge water systems, this research explores behavioral barriers and enablers to adopting nature-based solutions for cleaner water, engaging key stakeholders in the U.S. water sector.