The EcoDaLLi Living Labs, focusing on water systems restoration and biodiversity conservation, made a significant impact at the 31st International Symposium “Deltas and Wetlands” held in Tulcea, Romania. The event, co-organized by the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests of Romania and the Danube Delta National Institute, brought together stakeholders from across the Danube River Basin to discuss crucial environmental issues.

The symposium began with an inspiring opening ceremony, where key speakers, including Andreea Strachinescu from DG Mare of the European Commission, stressed the importance of collaboration for achieving the ambitious goals of the Mission Ocean and Waters. This set the stage for meaningful discussions throughout the event.

The first EcoDaLLi Living Lab session on 14 May 2024, focusing on water systems, was chaired by Mr. Gheorghe Constantin, Deputy General Director for Waters at the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests of Romania. Approximately 100 stakeholders participated in an engaging workshop, where discussions took place in three groups focusing on social, economic, and environmental aspects of water systems. A key takeaway was the need to prioritize the engagement of local communities in water management solutions.

The second EcoDaLLi Living Lab session on 16 May 2024 focused on biodiversity, and was chaired by the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Authority and moderated by Orieta Hulea, General Director of WWF Romania. During the session, representatives from all the Innovation Action projects under the Danube & Black Sea Lighthouse provided comprehensive updates on their contributions to biodiversity preservation. The session highlighted the complementary nature of the projects and the critical need for cross-border cooperation in addressing biodiversity challenges.

A key message that emerged from the discussions was the importance of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and the need for an effective regulatory framework to protect biodiversity in the region. One of the participants from Danube WETlands RESToration aptly summed up the sentiment, saying, „Nature knows no borders,“ reinforcing the need for international collaboration in conservation efforts.

The EcoDaLLi Living Labs demonstrated the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions for water systems and biodiversity conservation in the Danube River Basin. As the discussions progressed, participants were encouraged to continue engaging in future EcoDaLLi initiatives, helping to co-create actionable solutions and promote synergies for the restoration and protection of freshwater ecosystems.

This event also set the stage for the upcoming EcoDaLLi Living Labs on climate change in Croatia (June) and innovation ecosystems in Germany (July). The insights gained will be essential in shaping the future of water systems and biodiversity restoration in the region.