Dutch Water Authorities Unite for Future-Ready Innovation Strategy
Utrecht, Wednesday, 8 October 2025.
The Netherlands’ 21 water authorities collaborate on a national innovation strategy to enhance water management. Emphasizing knowledge sharing and efficiency, they aim to tackle climate change impacts.
Strategic Collaboration for Water Management
The Netherlands’ water authorities have strategically united to develop an innovative framework aimed at addressing the nation’s future water management challenges. This initiative was formulated during a pivotal meeting held on 1 October 2025 in Zwolle, where innovation leaders from various water boards, including STOWA and the Union of Water Boards, discussed the groundwork for a national strategy [1].
Leadership and Knowledge Sharing
Luzette Kroon, dijkgraaf of Wetterskip Fryslân and a board member for innovation at the Union of Water Boards, emphasized the critical role of cooperation among the 21 water authorities [1]. She highlighted that by pooling knowledge and sharing experiences, these entities can adopt smarter working practices that not only boost efficiency but also contribute to environmental sustainability and public health [1].
Innovative Projects and Investment
Waterschap Vechtstromen has committed significant resources, investing 3 million euros, which has been further expanded through co-financing. This investment supports projects such as BODAC, which focuses on removing medication residues from water, and Proeftuin de Slimme Vecht, which innovates in enforcement techniques [1]. Secretary-Director Richard Andringa highlighted the necessity of innovation to avoid unsustainable tax burdens and ensure agile and forward-thinking leadership [1].
Impact Lab and Future Directions
The Impact Lab initiative, launched concurrently with the strategic meeting on 1 October 2025, serves as a platform where professionals from 18 water boards collaborate on practical water management issues. This initiative facilitates the development of new methodologies and strengthens networks, which are crucial for the ongoing refinement of the national innovation strategy [1]. Bjorn Prudon, policy advisor for innovation at the Union of Water Authorities, stressed the importance of these endeavors in laying the groundwork for the strategy that will be reviewed in 2026 [1].