With the project entering its second half, the GAB meeting held on November 27 and 28, 2025, was dedicated to the transition toward the exploitation and replication phase of the solutions. As part of the GAB, each partner presented their accomplishments so far, thereby providing a detailed insight into the status and quality of the project's implementation. In addition to reviewing the status of the Work Packages, discussions focused on current and upcoming challenges, as well as the alignment of implementation across the three main demonstrator areas: Middle Danube, Lower Danube, and the Danube Delta.
In addition to the research role in the field, the Competence Center participates as a partner with a focus on innovation and development activities. Our role includes providing expertise in the field of exploitation of project results, with an emphasis on the development of sustainable business models and locally applicable strategies. This ensures their long-term impact and the possibility of replication beyond the project itself.
The DAnube WETlands REStoration (DaWetRest) project, officially titled Danube Wetlands and flood plains Restoration through systemic, community engaged and sustainable innovative actions, is an Innovation Action (IA) funded under the Horizon Europe programme and the EU Mission "Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030." The fundamental goal of the project is to develop and demonstrate pilot solutions applied across the Danube basin to address the challenges facing wetland ecosystems, encompassing biodiversity, water quality, climate resilience, and socio-economic benefits for local communities.
