To move rewards to "layer 2", there needs to be attractive staking options on layer one with HIVE.

Whether that be good interest rate from an actual stable HBD and/or bump up the measly 3% return on staked HIVE, and whatever, is another story. Like you said, RC (and governance) is not worth it for most people.

Something silly I've thought about is the amount of HIVE you staked affect the interest % for your HBD holdings.