Restoring our ocean and waters - together with local communities.
The Coalition of cities, regions, islands and ports for the Mission Ocean and Waters, created by CO-WATERS, empowers waterfront communities to restore marine and freshwater systems through collaboration, tailored services, and on-the-ground action as part of this EU Mission.
A shared effort for healthier waters
Healthy oceans and waters are vital living systems, sustaining planetary health and fundamental
to
human
well-being, climate stability, economic resilience. Yet they are increasingly threatened by
pollution,
overexploitation and the impacts of climate change. Meeting these challenges requires
coordinated
action
at every level, from European policy to local implementation.
The EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters” provides the framework for this collective effort,
setting
ambitious targets for 2030 and mobilising actors across Europe to protect and restore our water
systems.
About CO-WATERS
CO-WATERS is a Horizon Europe
project
running from 2025-2029, empowering waterfront cities-regions, islands and ports to lead the
transition to clean, healthy, and resilient marine and freshwater systems. It offers tailored
services, such
as
networking, peer learning, trainings, citizen and stakeholder engagement, and funding
advice, to
help them take effective action.
Backed by 17 partners, including six pilot areas, CO-WATERS is building a strong,
connected
Coalition capable of achieving the goals of the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters
by
2030.” To support recognition of efforts in this space, the project will also
develop the
Mission Ocean and Waters Label, to be acquired by waterfront cities, regions, islands and ports
with
strong and ambitious transition plans.
Driving transformation through tailored support
Building connections
We foster a vibrant network where waterfront cities, regions, islands, ports, and other actors can exchange knowledge, learn from one another, and strengthen their collective impact.
Hands-on training and tailored support
We equip local and regional leaders with the skills and confidence to lead an inclusive transition towards EU Mission Ocean and Waters goals through interactive training.
Community involvement
Engaging citizens and stakeholders is key. We support meaningful local participation that builds trust and long-term change.
Guidance on funding
Navigating financial opportunities can be complex. We provide tailored advice to help waterfront cities, regions, islands and ports access the resources they need to bring their transition plans to life.
Achieving recognition
We are working on developing the EU Mission Ocean and Waters Label to recognise the efforts of cities-regions, islands and ports with strong transition plans, showcasing their leadership in water restoration.
Meet the partners
Our diverse consortium brings together networks, consultancies, research and academic institutions, municipalities, regions, and islands - all working toward cleaner oceans and waters.
