Aquatic ecosystems are under increasing pressure from urbanisation, compounded by the escalating effects of climate change. With almost 60% of Europe’s water bodies considered to not be in a good ecological status and a global trend towards urbanisation, urgent efforts are needed to protect aquatic biodiversity.
In response to this challenge, for the past three years, the NICHES project, which is funded under the Biodiversa+ and Water JPI call for research proposals, explored the potential of nature-based solutions (NBS) to alleviate pressure on the combined sewage system during high rainfall events while also providing wider societal and environmental benefits.
Three years down the road of studying the benefits of Nature-based Solutions in urban areas, NICHES has reached the end of its duration. To celebrate the project’s achievements, the project is hosting a one-day virtual conference on 24 March 2025.
The event will provide an overview of the project’s innovative work, focusing on the progress toward advancing nature-based transformations of urban water systems.
Together with project partners, practitioners, scientists and policymakers, the event will explore the capacity of NBS to address critical urban water challenges, including mitigating stormwater runoff, flooding, and sewer overflow events. Join the conference, as renowned researchers and professionals reflect on how NICHES has contributed to building more resilient and healthy cities by leveraging the power of nature-based solutions (NBS).
This conference offers a chance to connect with a diverse network of professionals committed to integrating nature-based solutions into urban water management.
Save your spot by registering here by 28 February 2025.
The Teams link will be circulated via e-mail only to registered participants! The draft agenda can be found here.






















