About Natural Water Retention Measures (NWRM) in general

Climate change affects local communities around the world. The dangers are manifested in various extreme events, but the most common problem is caused by a lack or excessive amount of water. As a result of climate change the average temperature is expected to increase with 3-5 °C in Hungary. Periods of water shortage and drought are increasing, while raining is becoming more unpredictable and intense, causing worsening flood and inland water problems. Natural approaches have an important role to play in protecting water resources and addressing the risks associated with climate change.

Source: http://nwrm.eu/hydro-morphology

Source: http://nwrm.eu/hydro-morphology

Adaptation practices related to water management, which are based on the use of natural processes and ecosystem services, are called Natural Water Retention Measures (NWRM). As natural water retention solutions are considered a “powerful” adaptation option, their encouragement and support is widely desirable. These measures typically offer cost-effective, flexible/reversible solutions that always have benefits or low sacrifices, with a built-in vulnerability, and allow for faster decision-making. NWRM are less supportive of definitive or relatively irreversible engineering methods. It is also important that the measures are aimed at achieving net benefits, regardless of climate change. This means that they can be implemented at low cost or at no cost or otherwise for profit. They are likely to have benefits under current but also potential future climatic conditions. An additional benefit of NWRM is that not only water engineering or construction companies can be involved in implementation, but also municipalities, farmers and businesses. In this way, NWRM supports the adaptation of local stakeholders to climate change at the local level.

Source: http://nwrm.eu/urban

Source: http://nwrm.eu/urban

It is necessary to recognize that decisions on the use of local water resources are not taken by water management organizations alone, but together with all stakeholders. Through concrete measures that include the development of a legal and institutional framework to implement sustainable water resources management and climate adaptation.

Water is an important factor both locally and globally. Significant change in water resources is a primary impact of climate change that is recognized and perceived by local communities, farmers, businesses, residents and local governments alike.

Further information about the NWRM: http://nwrm.eu/