New EU initiatives to foster water resilience across Europe

On 12 November, the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) selected the tenth Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC) in the field of water, marine and maritime sectors and ecosystems. The KIC will develop an integrated approach in line with the source-to-sea approach of the European Water Resilience Strategy and European Ocean Pact to restore and protect the water cycle. Building on the EU Mission 'Restore our Ocean and Waters' and relevant Horizon Europe partnerships, it will support education, skills, deployment and commercialisation of innovation.

Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, said: "A healthy ocean and resilient freshwater systems are two sides of the same coin. EIT Water will help us bridge the gap between blue and green innovation by empowering local communities, businesses, and researchers. Supporting the delivery of the European Ocean Pact, it will contribute to restoring ecosystems, protecting marine life and securing a sustainable future for Europe's water and maritime sectors."

The European Commission also launched a series of Structured Water Dialogues at technical and political level with Member States, as part of the implementation of the European Water Resilience Strategy. Led by Commissioner for the Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, Jessika Roswall, and the relevant Ministers responsible for water management, these Dialogues will take place in each Member State between 2025 and 2027. They will allow the Commission to assist Member States in complying with country-specific recommendations to improve water management by 2027 as well as addressing water efficiency, in the face of water scarcity and flood events.

Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, Jessika Roswall, said: "We know what water challenges we are facing across Europe, but now is the time to listen and engage with each other to solve them. The Structured Dialogues and the tenth Knowledge and Innovation Community will both support the work to find innovative and sustainable solutions to ensure Europe's water resilience and play an important role in implementing the Water Resilience Strategy."