SPONGE

In July 2021, there was a major flood in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine. There was a lot of material damage and there were lives to mourn. The landscape there used to retain water well, but due to human intervention and climate change, this natural system is out of balance. As a result, floods and droughts are becoming more common. Water knows no borders, accelerated drainage in one place leads to drought or nuisance in another. In the Euregio Meuse-Rhine, this effect is cross-border.  

The SPONGE project aims to solve this. The aim is to make the landscape stronger again against the changing climate. They want the area to be able to retain water better, just like a sponge. They do this together with municipalities, farmers, landowners and other organizations in different countries. They try out natural and smart technical ideas, for example by setting up small projects in villages and rural areas. These examples strengthen awareness of NBS and NDTS as well as upstream and downstream solidarity. They also want countries to work together better and make clear agreements. In this way, the project hopes to reduce flooding, drought and damage and to protect people. 

Without support from Interreg Meuse-Rhine, it would be difficult to work together and keep the area safe and healthy for everyone.