Water Smart Connect Action Plan: A Roadmap for Regional Innovation in Water Management
The Water Smart Connect project has come to a successful close – leaving behind more than just outcomes. It has produced a powerful tool for municipalities, regions, and industry to take coordinated action on one of Europe’s most pressing challenges: sustainable water management.
As a culmination of two years of collaboration between seven European regions, the Water Smart Connect Action Plan offers a joint framework to tackle water-related issues through innovation and cross-sectoral cooperation. Several members of the International Cleantech Network (ICN) (Clean, Water Alliance, and Kuopio Water Cluster) have contributed their expertise to shape this forward-thinking roadmap.
Why Water Smart Connect Matters
Europe is facing increasing water stress – from persistent droughts and intense rainfall to pollution and competing water demands from agriculture, industry, and growing cities. This action plan equips local and regional actors with a shared set of priorities and practical solutions to address these issues head-on.
What the Action Plan Offers
Designed with decision-makers in mind, the action plan outlines:
Concrete short-, medium-, and long-term actions across three priority areas:
Water Quality & Pollution Prevention (e.g. PFAS, microplastics, advanced monitoring)
Climate Change Adaptation (e.g. nature-based solutions, early-warning systems)
Water-Food Nexus (e.g. sustainable irrigation, runoff reduction)
Smart tools and data-sharing strategies
Guidance on funding, stakeholder engagement, and policy alignment
Clear roles for municipalities and regions in implementing change – from public awareness to urban planning
A Call to Action for Cities, Regions, and Industry
The action plan is not just a policy document – it’s an invitation. ICN calls on municipalities, regional authorities, and companies to join forces in piloting, scaling, and financing water-smart solutions.
By engaging with ICN and its members, local governments and companies can:
Connect with European innovation leaders in water cleantech
Participate in joint pilot projects and testbeds
Align local strategies with European climate and water goals
Tap into funding opportunities including Horizon Europe, LIFE, and Interreg
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The Water Smart Connect Action Plan is a gateway to smarter, more resilient water systems. Whether you’re planning a green infrastructure upgrade, tackling emerging pollutants, or looking to innovate in agriculture, ICN and its partners are ready to collaborate.
📥 Download the Action Plan
Let’s make European water management more innovative, integrated, and future-proof – together.