Nature-Based Water management and treatment systems for enhancing climate resilience in Skiathos
The NURISH project organized the Resilience Hub 1 (RH1) Stakeholder Workshop in Skiathos, bringing together local authorities, water management bodies, researchers, and community representatives to discuss climate adaptation challenges and explore opportunities for implementing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) on the island.
The workshop introduced the NURISH Regenerative Rural Resilience (RRR) framework and upcoming activities in Skiathos, while fostering dialogue on the development of nature-based water management and treatment systems that can strengthen local resilience to climate risks. Participants discussed the island’s main environmental challenges, including water scarcity, increasing pressure on water resources, flood risks, and wildfire vulnerability, highlighting the need for integrated adaptation approaches tailored to island conditions. Water reuse and circular practices were also identified as important pathways for reducing pressure on limited natural resources.
Discussions focused on how Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can complement traditional infrastructure by enhancing natural processes. Participants explored examples such as water retention and infiltration measures, ecosystem-based treatment systems, and multifunctional green infrastructure that can support both flood mitigation and wildfire resilience. They also emphasised the importance of designing solutions adapted to local environmental conditions while ensuring active community involvement throughout the process.
The workshop also included a stakeholder mapping exercise, bringing together actors from water management, climate adaptation, tourism, education, and community development. Participants identified opportunities to strengthen collaboration between public authorities, researchers, businesses, and local communities, while highlighting the value of exchanging knowledge and good practices with other regions facing similar climate challenges.
Another key part of the workshop focused on identifying capacity-building needs. Discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening knowledge related to climate adaptation planning, sustainable water management, circularity, Nature-based Solutions (NbS), and access to funding opportunities. Participants also recognised community engagement and awareness-raising, particularly through educational activities, as essential for promoting sustainable practices and fostering long-term environmental stewardship.
The RH1 workshop provided valuable insights that will guide the next stages of the NURISH co-design process for the proposed solutions in Skiathos. The strong engagement of local stakeholders, combined with the project’s approach of integratingscientific expertise with local knowledge, provides a solid foundation for advancing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) tailored to the island’s environmental challenges.
Building on the priorities identified during the workshop, NURISH will continue working closely with local actors to promote sustainable water management, strengthen climate resilience, and support the development of practical Nature-based Solutions (NbS) that contribute to a more resilient future for the Skiathos community.
