D-CLEAN - Improving Water Quality in the Danube River Basin
The D-CLEAN project addresses one of the most pressing environmental challenges in the Danube River Basin: wastewater and stormwater pollution, particularly in small and rural settlements. By promoting sustainable, climate-resilient and cost-effective solutions, the project aims to improve water quality while strengthening local capacities across borders.
Foster Europe Foundation participates in D-CLEAN as an associated partner, contributing its expertise in governance, participation and transnational cooperation to support the project’s objectives.
From Policy to Practice: Sustainable Solutions for Small Settlements
D-CLEAN focuses on decentralized wastewater and stormwater management approaches tailored to the needs of small communities. Central to the project are nature-based solutions (NBS), which offer adaptable and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional infrastructure, while delivering multiple social and economic benefits.
Through awareness-raising, capacity-building and practical demonstrations, the project supports local and regional stakeholders in planning and implementing resilient water management solutions that are aligned with EU water policy frameworks.
Key Actions and Transnational Cooperation
The project brings together partners from across the Danube Region to design and test solutions in five pilot areas located in the Sava, Drava-Mura, Tisza and Lower Danube basins. These pilot activities are complemented by tailored training programmes, Training of Trainers sessions and the establishment of a shared Knowledge Hub, fostering continuous exchange and learning among practitioners and decision-makers.
In addition, D-CLEAN will develop a transnational roadmap and practical planning tools to support authorities and experts in mainstreaming decentralized wastewater and stormwater solutions, particularly in small and rural settlements.
A Shared Vision for a Cleaner Danube
By combining nature-based solutions, capacity-building and policy support, D-CLEAN contributes to the implementation of key EU directives such as the Water Framework Directive and the revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. The project’s long-term vision is a cleaner, healthier and more resilient Danube River Basin, ensuring that no community is left behind.
Project period: 01/04/2023 - 31/03/2028
Co-funded by: Funded by the European Union