LIFE RIVEREASE – Application of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to reduce the impact of agriculture on water resources in the face of climate change

LIFE24-CCA-PL-LIFE RIVEREASE

PROJECT DURATION: 01/07/25 – 30/06/30

PROJECT SUMMARY AND OBJECTIVES

The LIFE RIVEREASE project is a key initiative supporting European Union member states in implementing the Nature Restoration Law (NRL). It focuses on adapting agricultural lands to the impacts of climate change through nature-based solutions (NBS), promoting both environmental restoration and sustainable farming practices.

The project addresses major challenges such as drought, agricultural pollution, and biodiversity loss. By deploying NBS systems, it aims to enhance water retention, reduce nutrient transfer (phosphorus and nitrogen), and strengthen river and agricultural ecosystems.

A central element of LIFE RIVEREASE project, is the development of two innovative IT tools:

  • RIVEREASE OPEN, which supports the planning and implementation of NBS by integrating spatial and hydrological data, and
  • RIVEREASE REAL TIME, which enables real-time monitoring and management of water resources, allowing immediate responses to changing climatic conditions such as droughts and floods.

Both tools are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring broad accessibility for experts and farmers alike. They will be tested in two demonstration river basins in Poland and four replication river basins in Denmark and Germany. The solutions developed are designed to be scalable and can be easily applied in other European regions facing similar climate-related threats.

The project’s objectives include improving landscape water retention, protecting biodiversity, reducing nutrient pollution, and enhancing the ecological status of rivers impacted by agricultural activities. Education and engagement of stakeholders—from farmers to water managers—are also central, helping communities adapt agricultural lands to climate change.

The LIFE RIVEREASE consortium brings together universities, local governments, private companies, and NGOs from Poland, Germany, and Denmark. Its final goal is to create scalable NBS that can be implemented across the EU, supporting Member States in achieving their environmental and climate adaptation targets.

AMPHI’S ROLE IN THE PROJECT

As the leader of the replication case in Denmark, AMPHI, with the support of KLAR Forsyning, will contribute by implementing project tools and focusing on NBS that benefit biodiversity. AMPHI will share its practical expertise in freshwater habitat creation and restoration and will test the project-developed IT tools in Danish replication catchments.

Specific pond innovations will also be tested by AMPHI, implementing solutions for shallow wetland areas that support reproduction and provide habitat for macroinvertebrates and amphibian species. Similar innovations will be applied through the planning of buffer zones and the drafting of maintenance recommendations.

Experience from existing agricultural and urban ponds will be gathered through field monitoring programs and the compilation of best practices to guide the design of NBS that retain water, reduce pollution, and create valuable habitats for local biodiversity. In addition, AMPHI and KLAR Forsyning will explore opportunities for collaboration and partnerships to further develop and commercialize the solutions tested during the project.

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Total project budget: 6 090 024,84 €
  • EC contribution: 3 654 014,9 €
  • Project coordinator: The Sendzimir Foundation Project
    • Contact: Grzegorz Plewiński: g.plewinski@poddebice.pl
  • Project partners: KLAR Forsyning, Poddębice Commune, Wartkowice Commune, Zadzim Commune, The University of Lodz, FPP Enviro, Ingenieurgesellschaft Prof. Dr Sieker mbH, KLAR Forsyning and Amphi International ApS

Semi-urban ponds in Strandby Have (Greve), which will be used as a reference site for biodiversity and water quality data collection.

The LIFE Riverease project is co-financed by the LIFE Programme – the EU fund for the environment, climate and energy, which supports the most ambitious and innovative environmental initiatives in Europe. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union, CINEA or National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management. Neither the European Union nor the granting authorities can be held responsible for them.

Grant Agreement – Project 101213967 – LIFE24-CCA-PL-LIFE RIVEREASE