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Cofunded by the European Union

Restoring catchments and rivers under global change

Abstract -

Climate change is changing weather patterns in Europe, making extreme events such as heatwaves, meteorological droughts and extreme rainfall events more likely. Consequently, hydrological regimes of rivers and wetlands are becoming more erratic and extreme. It affects their ecological functioning and biodiversity, as species are not adapted to these new conditions. We are also increasingly relying on surface and groundwater resources, especially during drought episodes, when there is already a natural water stress for aquatic ecosystems. To compromise between higher water demand and the ecological boundaries of sustainability [...]

Learn more about the project: Link to the pdf page

The Water4All Partnership - Water Security for the Planet - is a funding programme for scientific research in freshwater. It aims to tackle water challenges to face climate change, help to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and boost the EU’s competitiveness and growth.

It is co-funded by the European Union within the frame of the Horizon Europe programme (a key funding programme for research and innovation). The Partnership duration is for seven years from 2022.

The Water4All objective is to enable water security at a large scale and in the long term. Its goal is also to tackle water issues in a holistic frame. 

All forms of life on earth need water. All human activities operate with this resource. Water is part of our everyday life. It is also integrated within urban and countryside landscapes. It is one of the most valuable elements we share with plants and animals.

These simple facts must be kept in mind to understand the Water4All ambition.

This resource is weakened in many places due to climate changes, and human habits. We know that we can improve the way we use water. Everyone has a role to play and especially the scientific research community.

Scientific research is the heart of the Partnership as It is a powerful tool to improve knowledge on preserving, restoring, and managing this essential resource. 

International cooperation is also needed as water has no borders on Earth and runs from one country to another.

Water4All brings together a broad and cohesive group of 90 partners from 33 countries in the European Union and beyond. This consortium gathers partners from the whole water Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) chain.