Restoring our ocean and waters - together with local communities.
We empower waterfront cities, regions, and islands to lead the transformation toward clean, healthy, and resilient water systems.
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 goals for 2030 and mobilising actors across Europe to protect and restore our water systems.
About CO-WATERS
The Coalition of Waterfront Cities, Regions and Islands (CO-WATERS) is a Horizon Europe
project
running from 2025-2029, empowering waterfront cities, regions, and islands to lead the
transition to clean, healthy, and resilient water 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 with
strong and ambitious transition plans.
Driving transformation through tailored support
Building connections
We foster a vibrant network where waterfront cities, regions, islands, 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 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, and islands access the resources they need to bring their transition plans to life.
Achieving recognition
We are working on developing the EU Mission Ocean & Waters Label to recognise the efforts of cities, regions, and islands 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.
