RhineNet

Developing participative management for the Rhine

Background

The Rhine and its tributaries are the main arteries in the centre of Europe. Its catchment area represents one of the areas with the largest population density, to the highest European traffic volume and one of the major industrial centres of Europe. This does not remain without consequences for environment of the catchment area: the intensive agricultural use of land, the urban sprawl, the Rhine navigation, the straightening of the Rhine and its tributaries had negative consequences for the fluvial plains and its associated fauna and flora.
Nothing the despite or perhaps straight because of these endangerments exists in the entire catchment area a rich experience in water management and many initiatives of citizens, federations, the private sector, the municipalities and the public administration as well as not least international organizations.
These initiatives are from great importance regarding the implementation of the European water framework directive, which sets new impulses for the participation of the society in a sustainable, and responsible water management.
The RhineNet would like to construct on these initiatives, develop further and interlace them.