the SudWaMa initiative<\/a>, co-funded by the Interreg Sudoe Programme, is
\nleading a transnational effort between 2025 and 2028 to transform institutional buildings into \u00ab\u00a0Living
\nLaboratories\u00a0\u00bb for sustainable innovation.<\/p>\nThe project\u2019s inaugural webinar brought together the partners and stakeholders of the project to highlight
\na critical shift in perspective: urban runoff should not be treated as a waste product to be evacuated, but
\nas a precious resource to be harvested.<\/p>\n
During the online event, experts discussed the transition toward Circular Water Management, focusing
\non three strategic pillars: policy harmonization, technological innovation (greywater and rainwater reuse),
\nand citizen engagement.<\/p>\n
Turning cities into \u201csponges\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\nOne of the most compelling topics addressed was the implementation of Sustainable Urban Drainage
\nSystems (SUDS). By adopting the \u00ab\u00a0Sponge City\u00a0\u00bb concept, urban environments can mimic natural cycles,
\nallowing water to infiltrate and evaporate rather than overloading sewage systems.
\nThe webinar showcased how green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements\u2014like those used in
\nmajor sports stadiums and exhibition centers\u2014can manage water volume, improve quality through
\nnatural filtration, and enhance urban biodiversity.<\/p>\n
Another highlight of the session was the introduction of the Water Performance Diagnosis (DPH –
\nDiagnostic de Performance Hydro). Much like the well-known energy efficiency labels for appliances
\nand homes, the DPH assigns a rating from A to G to buildings based on five key indices:<\/p>\n
\n- Quantitative: Measuring flows and control processes.<\/li>\n
- Qualitative: Evaluating chemical and organic pollutants.<\/li>\n
- Equipment & Behavior: Analyzing the efficiency of devices versus user habits.<\/li>\n
- Biotope Coefficient: Surface permeability.<\/li>\n
- Hydric Stress: Projecting needs for 2030 and 2050.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
This framework, currently undergoing AFNOR standardization for 2027, aims to help buildings achieve
\nup to 40% water savings.<\/p>\n
The Portuguese model<\/strong><\/p>\nThe webinar also provided a masterclass in governance through the case of Portugal. Since 1993, the
\ncountry has transformed its water sector through a \u20ac40 billion investment and structural reforms. Key
\ntakeaways included the importance of independent regulation (ERSAR), the aggregation of services to
\ngain scale, and long-term strategic planning (30-year visions).<\/p>\n
This approach has led Portugal to achieve near-universal drinking water quality and a massive increase
\nin wastewater treatment coverage (from 28% to 86%).<\/p>\n
Join the SudWaMa community<\/strong><\/p>\nThe SudWaMa project demonstrates that sustainable water management is not just a technical
\nchallenge, but a social and political one. By combining \u00ab\u00a0green\u00a0\u00bb and \u00ab\u00a0grey\u00a0\u00bb infrastructures with active
\ncitizen participation, the SUDOE area is positioning itself as a European reference for climate adaptation.
\nBe part of the solution. To stay updated on future webinars, access expert insights, and explore real-
\nworld project results, you can join the SudWaMa database by leaving your contact details here.
\nTogether, we are building a water-secure future for Southern Europe.<\/p>\n
SudWaMa is led by Zubigune Fundazioa and its consortium gathers Universidade de Coimbra,
\nUniversidad Polit\u00e9cnica de Madrid, CEIGRAM-UPM, BREEN AQUAPONIC SYSTEMS SL, ESSEC
\nBusiness School, Canal de Isabel II, \u00c1guas de Coimbra, E.M., Communaut\u00e9 Pays Basque and
\nBUILD:INN, Basque Construction Cluster.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n