The “Blue Rivers and Lakes” Award, launched by BlueMissionMed in collaboration with the European Commission, aimed to spotlight impactful initiatives dedicated to protecting and restoring small and medium-sized water basins across Europe. This recognition highlighted interventions that could be directly observed, measured, and replicated in smaller, localized aquatic systems, showcasing the commitment of the EU basins community to the Mission Ocean and Waters’ objectives.

Category 1 – Governance

The award recognizes outstanding governance models that foster transparent and participatory management practices, engage local communities, and enhance long-term sustainability of small and medium-sized rivers and lakes.

 Winner: “10 YEARS OF FLUVIAL STEWARDSHIP – A Collaborative Framework for River Restoration and Conservation in the Catalan River Basin District”, proposed by the Catalan Water Agency

Category 2 – Innovation

This category recognizes pioneering solutions that address key challenges in the management, preservation, and enhancement of small and medium-sized rivers and lakes. The focus is on cutting-edge technologies, scalable solutions, and innovative methodologies that can inspire similar initiatives across Europe.

 Winner: “Bubble Barrier” Vila do Conde, proposed by The Great Bubble Barrier

Category 3- Restoration

This category highlights outstanding restoration efforts that rehabilitate degraded aquatic ecosystems, restore natural hydrological flows, and contribute to the long-term ecological health of small and medium-sized rivers and lakes.

 Winner: “Innovative Financing Mechanisms – A Case Study in Piedmont”, proposed by Piemonte Region

 Special Mention for Restoration and Inclusivity – AMIRIOS, proposed by AMIGOS.org