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NBRACER at EURESFO 2025

June 25 – 14h00 – 16h30

Session code: WS3
From Practice to Policy: Innovating Water Resilience through Nature-based Solutions (NbS)

Topic stream: Exploring nature-based solutions: from policy to action

Session description:

The session will explore how NbS strengthen water resilience and support the objectives of EU water-related policies. It will develop policy recommendations in line with EU frameworks, especially the drafted Water Resilience Strategy. Showcasing local/regional examples, it will discuss enablers, barriers and lessons learned and will highlight how NbS tackle climate-related challenges like flood management, water scarcity, wastewater treatment and reuse, water quality and ecosystem restoration.
Discussions will focus on existing policy barriers and the development of actionable policy recommendations. Bringing together key stakeholders from EU-funded projects and municipalities, the session aims to drive innovation in water resilience practices through the integration of NbS. Emphasis will be placed on aligning these recommendations with EU frameworks and the forthcoming Water Resilience Strategy Draft, ensuring they contribute to shaping future EU policies and funding initiatives.

Spotlight on Fryslân: Remeandering the Lende

A key feature of the session is the Remeandering of the Lende project in the Dutch province of Fryslân. Part of the broader Beekdal Linde Area Development Project, this initiative is jointly led by Provincie Fryslân, Wetterskip Fryslân, Gemeente Weststellingwerf, It Fryske Gea, and Staatsbosbeheer.

Launched in 2025 and due for completion in 2026, the project is restoring eight historical meanders to the Lende stream, which had been previously canalised. Using historical maps and aerial imagery, project teams are reintroducing natural bends, constructing eco-friendly riverbanks, and installing infrastructure such as culverts, bridges, and a canoe dock.

These measures aim to:

  1. Build a resilient water system by improving water retention and reducing reliance on the IJsselmeer.
  2. Protect critical ecosystems and user functions, including habitats for protected species and recreational opportunities.
  3. Enable smart, sustainable water use through improved infiltration and more balanced distribution during wet and dry periods.

Once complete, the remeandered stream will support the goals of the EU Water Framework Directive and offer a climate-adaptive model for other European regions.