Sustainable water and land use
The availability of clean water and healthy soils is under pressure. Driven by climate change, pollution and intensive agriculture, salinisation, drought and flooding are increasing, while the quality of water and soils is declining – even in the Netherlands. This puts our environment and food supply at risk. That has to change. How can we use our water and land more sustainably?
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What is sustainable water and land use?
Sustainable water and land use means managing our soil, space and water in such a way that they remain healthy and available for future generations to enjoy. Climate change, pollution and soil degradation make this more urgent than ever.
Why is sustainable water and land use important?
Water and soil form the basis of life. Without sustainable management, agriculture, nature and housing fall out of balance. For a healthy, resilient and balanced society, the reuse of water and the restoration of soil quality are essential.
Solutions for sustainable water and land use
Pressure on soil and water comes from many directions – from population growth to climate stress and pollution. The solutions are just as diverse. Wageningen University & Research works on technological innovations, takes inspiration from nature, and connects science, policy and practice to bring soil and water back into balance.
What is sustainable water and land use?
Sustainable water and land use means managing our soil, space and water in such a way that they remain healthy and available for future generations to enjoy. Climate change, pollution and soil degradation make this more urgent than ever.
Why is sustainable water and land use important?
Water and soil form the basis of life. Without sustainable management, agriculture, nature and housing fall out of balance. For a healthy, resilient and balanced society, the reuse of water and the restoration of soil quality are essential.
Solutions for sustainable water and land use
Pressure on soil and water comes from many directions – from population growth to climate stress and pollution. The solutions are just as diverse. Wageningen University & Research works on technological innovations, takes inspiration from nature, and connects science, policy and practice to bring soil and water back into balance.
A land that works with water
By 2120, the Netherlands will be a mosaic of water, nature and human activity. Rivers will be given space to flow freely, low-lying areas will store water in wet periods and release it during dry ones. What was once a struggle against water will have become cooperation with it. Landscapes will function as living systems. Farmers will cultivate wet crops, flower-rich buffer zones will retain water and strengthen biodiversity. Cities will be permeable: roofs will capture rainwater, squares will temporarily hold water, and green corridors will connect urban areas with the countryside.
Elsewhere in the world, water and soil have become guiding principles in spatial planning. The land appears as a network of shimmering veins and green lungs, a living organism that moves with the climate and thrives through resilience. Wageningen University & Research contributes to this transition through knowledge and innovation. Research focuses on circular water technology, nature-inclusive agriculture, regional water strategies and improving soil fertility. By working together with governments, businesses and citizens, WUR helps build a future in which sustainable land use and water management take centre stage.
A sustainable water and land transition in progress
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Let's make a difference together
Sustainable water and land use is about bringing soil, water and space into balance. Drought, salinisation and the growing demand for food and energy are putting these resources under increasing pressure. Smart and fair management is needed to keep soils fertile and ensure the availability of clean water. Farmers, businesses, policymakers and citizens are working together to find solutions that connect technology, nature and solidarity. In doing so, we are building a resilient living environment for future generations. Together, we make the difference.
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Discover our themes
Sustainable food systems
We need to find a new balance between what we eat, how we produce it, and the conditions under which it is grown.
Biodiversity and resilient ecosystems
The interaction between plants, animals and ecosystems keeps our environment healthy, nutritious and resilient. How do we preserve that balance?
Global health
In a healthy world, it is not only people who thrive. Our health is connected to the health of all living things.
Climate-proof futures
To withstand the impacts of climate change, adaptation is essential — from green cities to nature-inclusive agriculture.
Biobased and circular society
In a circular society, we close resource loops, use renewable materials and generate almost no waste.
Sustainable water and land use
How do we manage our water and land so that these vital resources remain available for future generations?
Sustainable food systems
We need to find a new balance between what we eat, how we produce it, and the conditions under which it is grown.
Biodiversity and resilient ecosystems
The interaction between plants, animals and ecosystems keeps our environment healthy, nutritious and resilient. How do we preserve that balance?
Global health
In a healthy world, it is not only people who thrive. Our health is connected to the health of all living things.
Climate-proof futures
To withstand the impacts of climate change, adaptation is essential — from green cities to nature-inclusive agriculture.
Biobased and circular society
In a circular society, we close resource loops, use renewable materials and generate almost no waste.
Sustainable water and land use
How do we manage our water and land so that these vital resources remain available for future generations?