DESSIN - KWR

Water scarcity and water quality present a big challenge worldwide. DESSIN (Demonstrate Ecosystem Services Enabling Innovation in the Water Sector) has a twofold objective. First, to promote the implementation of innovative solutions for water-related issues and, second, to develop a standardised methodology to determine the impact of the implementation of solutions on the ecosystem.

Demonstration projects with innovative solutions

Within DESSIN, innovative solutions are implemented and researched at five demonstration sites in Europe, including the greenhouse horticultural area in the Dutch Westland region. Here, KWR, together with technology provider Bruine de Bruin, is researching the temporary storage of rainwater in the subsurface, so that freshwater is available in times of shortages. Apart from the work on the temporary storage, the Westland research also focuses on the environmental impact, both in the short and long term. The evaluation methodology developed within DESSIN is also being tested at the demonstration sites.

Marketable solutions with practical applications

The methodology developed within DESSIN to valuate ecosystem services makes it possible to compare measures, promoting the development of practical applications for innovations.

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.