In the heart of rural and urban landscapes, hedgerows stand as unsung heroes, offering a multitude of benefits that stretch from environmental conservation to societal well-being. A recent study, led by Katherine Clark from the University of Reading’s School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, delves into the multifaceted advantages of hedgerows and the current state of research supporting these benefits. The study, published in the journal *People and Nature* (translated to *People and Nature*), sheds light on the gaps between stakeholder needs and existing research, paving the way for future developments in this field.
Hedgerows are more than just boundaries; they are ecosystems that support wildlife, provide essential services like pollination and pest control, offer shade and shelter for crops and livestock, and even contribute to climate change mitigation and flood alleviation. “Stakeholders value the benefits hedges and hedgerows provide to wildlife, nature-based services, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and flooding alleviation in both rural and urban environments,” Clark explains.
The study, which involved a series of workshops and surveys with stakeholders, identified a disconnect between the benefits valued by these groups and the availability of evidence-based guidance. For instance, while stakeholders highly value hedgerows for flood alleviation and climate change mitigation, the current body of research does not sufficiently address these areas.
This gap in knowledge presents a significant opportunity for future research. By targeting locations and regions where evidence is lacking, and by studying under-researched factors or benefits, researchers can provide practical management and policy recommendations. “Priority areas for future research include targeting locations, contexts and regions where there is currently a lack of available evidence, supporting research on understudied factors or benefits, and finally implementing research that tests and compares hedge characteristics and management approaches,” Clark notes.
For the energy sector, the implications are substantial. Hedgerows can play a crucial role in climate change mitigation by sequestering carbon and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They can also help adapt to climate change by providing shade and shelter, reducing the need for energy-intensive cooling systems. Moreover, hedgerows can contribute to flood alleviation, reducing the risk of energy infrastructure damage and disruption.
The study’s findings underscore the need for a more comprehensive and targeted approach to hedgerow research. By addressing these gaps, researchers can provide the evidence needed to maximize the benefits of hedgerows, shaping future developments in environmental management, policy, and the energy sector. As we strive to build a more sustainable future, the humble hedgerow stands as a testament to the power of nature-based solutions.