11th EWA Brussels Conference - "Water Challenges in Europe"

Water status in Europe is slowly improving. In 2009, only 43 % of EU surface waters had reached good ecological status. In 2015, it is already 53 %. The EU water policy has helped develop a dynamic world-leading water sector. There are still some existing challenges and Europe is striving to reach a good ecological status of its water. Agriculture still puts a significant pressure on water, as well as other hydromorphological alterations. By the end of 2015, Europe will have prepared plans to improve EU’s waters and to reduce the risk of flooding of what we value the most: our health and the environment, our heritage and economies. There is an enormous potential for economic savings if floods are adequately managed.

On the first day of the 11th EWA Brussels Conference, the European Water Association (EWA) is awarding the William Dunbar Medal. Since 1973 the Dunbar Medal is donated by Messe München International and awarded by the EWA to an individual who has made a major contribution to the science and/ or technology of water or wastewater management. All participants of the conference are cordially invited to take part in the ceremony where a keynote address will be given by the medal winner