This NbS is implemented in all ecosystems where grasslands and meadows can be established, which can be cultural, costal, mountains landscapes and even urban areas.
Why
Grasslands are one of the most widely distributed vegetation types in the world, and they cover approximately 40% of the global terrestrial area and 69% of the world’s agricultural area. Ecosystems service linked to grasslands plays an important role in ecosystem conservation. For example, as one of the most important carbon sinks, grassland stores 50% more soil carbon than forest. However, grasslands have suffered widespread and severe degradation in many parts of the world, which has threatened ecosystem services and socioeconomic development. It is generally believed that, climate change and human activities are the two main drivers of grassland degradation.
Grazing and mowing grasslands and meadows have the potential to counteract several societal challenges mainly related to biodiversity enhancement, climate change mitigation, food security, disaster and risk preparedness and human health and wellbeing. This is done through the following pathways:
How
Conserving and maintaining existing grasslands and meadows is the best way to ensure biodiversity and other ecosystem benefits. This is because it can be difficult to restore or create a degraded habitat that provides the same ecosystem functions as an intact grassland or meadow. Today, it is unusual to have incorporated meadows and grazing land in agricultural landscapes, especially in areas with more productive land, as these are highly managed and disturbed areas. Therefore, it is important to continuously maintain these habitats. The maintenance needed depends on the type of grassland - some require yearly maintenance. Continuing with traditional farming practices, such as the use of grazing animals on semi-natural grasslands, is the most desirable option.
Grazing can be done by one or more animals, such as cows, sheep and horses. The grassland flora and fauna will differ, sometimes significantly, depending on the grazer. The timing of grazing period can also influence outcomes, where some grasslands should be grazed later in the season.
Meadows are mowed either by machine or by hand (e.g. with a scythe). The cut grass or stems of smaller bushes should be removed after the mowing.