A Shared Vision for Climate Resilience
Over two days of intensive workshops and strategic planning, the partners laid the groundwork for a four-year collaboration. At the heart of WATERGRID is a commitment to merging the ecological power of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) with the precision of digital intelligence.
As Europe faces increasingly severe drought cycles, the “Smart Water Grid” concept offers a path forward – integrating natural water retention, such as restored wetlands and floodplains, into a monitored, smart network that increases water availability even in extreme climates.

From Theory to the Field
The meeting wasn’t just about boardrooms and slides. To bring the project’s goals to life, partners presented the diverse demonstration and validation sites located across Europe. From Lake Schwerin in Germany to catchments in Slovakia and the UK, the geographical reach of WATERGRID ensures that our solutions are tested across various European climates and landscapes.
The group also visited the Duchy College site, where a walking tour showcased several nature-based solutions already in operation. These practical insights and a few pairs of wet boots reminded the consortium of the real-world impact this infrastructure will have on local ecosystems and communities.

What’s Next?
With the methodology finalized and the collaboration strengthened, the WATERGRID team is now moving into the active research and implementation phase.
“The energy in Plymouth was a testament to the importance of this work. We aren’t just managing water; we are designing the future of European climate resilience,” noted the project coordination team.
Stay Connected: Follow our journey here on the official WATERGRID website. We will be sharing regular updates from our demonstration sites, deep dives into our digital innovations, and news on how we are shaping water policy across the EU.