Minimizing disruptions caused by damming and ensuring the health of downstream ecosystems

摘要

In view of the Brazilian Ten-Year Energy Expansion Plan 2021, this article presents a discussion on environmental flow (e-flow). The authors analyze the literature to show the evolution of publications concerning e-flow releases from the perspective of ecosystems services preservation considering results from different case studies from throughout the world. Finally, two main recommendations are drawn regarding e-flow are: (1) performing a holistic approach to e-flow planning, including hydrological, hydraulic, water quality, habitat, and riparian zone considerations; and (2) installing in new structures adequate bottom outlets to allow a range of adjustable e-flow from reservoir dams to reproduce natural flow variations.