Advancing freshwater restoration

Manolia Vougioukalou was selected as a Recreating Freshwater Showcase because she worked on a project that represents a rare habitat type in Greece, with only a few similar examples in the region. Its restoration was carefully planned over an extended period and required three separate project applications before approval. The initiative was carried out with strong involvement of the local community, ensuring local ownership and long-term sustainability. The technical solution applied is a proven method, but was adapted to local conditions: due to water availability constraints, inundation is only possible during irrigation periods.

Albert was selected for the Recreating Freshwater Showcase because he has a great experiences freshwater restoration. He presented three major projects focused on freshwater ecosystem restoration through nature-based solutions (NBS), emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement, scientific modeling, and interdisciplinary teamwork. He highlighted that successful implementation of NBS requires scientific credibility, clear communication of benefits, strong partnerships, and support at all governance levels. Real-world demonstrations and co-design with local communities are key to gaining acceptance and ensuring long-term success.

Jasmin Sadiković was selected as a Recreating Freshwater Showcase for his leadership in the DRAVA LIFE project—Croatia’s first large-scale freshwater restoration initiative, which spanned an exceptional nine years. As project coordinator, he played a central role in managing one of the most ambitious restoration efforts in the region, funded through the EU LIFE programme.
Sadiković highlighted that a key challenge was overcoming institutional and ideological divides among stakeholders. Achieving consensus required sustained dialogue, compromise, and joint technical innovation. The involvement of international consultancy firms with experience in EU-funded restoration projects was critical in bridging knowledge gaps and aligning diverse priorities.
Beyond technical and engineering measures, the project placed strong emphasis on awareness-raising and stakeholder engagement. This included public events, educational programs in schools, and community outreach to communicate the co-benefits of restoration—such as improved flood protection, enhanced fish spawning habitats, and more resilient landscapes.
Although the process was long and at times difficult, Sadiković emphasized that the ecological outcomes—such as the creation of new habitats and an increase in species richness—made the effort deeply rewarding. His advice to others pursuing similar work is to remain persistent, flexible, and committed, noting that success in long-term restoration depends not only on technical solutions but also on trust-building, cross-sector collaboration, and belief in the shared value of restored ecosystems.