| Abstract | Urban water bodies in Chiang Rai Province are increasingly affected by nutrient pollution and climate-related pressures, highlighting the need for sustainable approaches to urban water management. This study investigated the potential of floating gardens as a Nature-based Solution (NbS) for improving water quality and supporting climate-resilient urban water management. The objectives were to assess seasonal water quality conditions and water security challenges, evaluate nutrient removal performance of selected plant species, and develop practical implementation strategies based on technical performance and stakeholder perspectives.Seasonal water-quality monitoring was conducted at a canal within Princess Chulabhorn Science High School Chiang Rai during wet and dry seasons. A 15-day experiment evaluated total phosphorus (TP) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) removal by five plant species: umbrella plant, canna lily, heliconia, cattail, and vetiver. Stakeholder and schoolchildren surveys were conducted to assess perceptions, participation, and implementation considerations.The baseline assessment indicated nutrient enrichment, with TP reaching 0.79 mg/L, while seasonal variation was particularly evident in dissolved oxygen. All five species demonstrated nutrient-removal potential. Umbrella plant achieved the highest TP removal efficiency (96.22%), followed by cattail (94.11%) and canna lily (93.82%). Considering combined TP and TKN performance, cattail, umbrella plant, and canna lily were identified as the three leading candidate species. Stakeholders generally supported floating garden implementation but identified maintenance, community participation, material selection, and long-term monitoring as key considerations. Schoolchildren also showed increased willingness to participate following the educational activity.Overall, floating gardens demonstrate potential as a complementary NbS for nutrient management, while also providing educational, ecological, aesthetic, and community benefits. Site-specific design, appropriate plant selection, sustainable maintenance, monitoring, and stakeholder collaboration are recommended for future implementation in Chiang Rai and similar urban environments. |
