From vision to implementation of river restoration in the UNESCO Five-country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube

Varaždin, Croatia – October 22^nd, 2024 The Final International Symposium of the DRAVA LIFE (DL) project is being held at the Varaždin City Museum, marking the culmination of nearly a decade of dedicated efforts to restore and protect the Drava River. From October 21-24, 2024, experts, policymakers, and environmental advocates from across the UNESCO Five-country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube (TBR MDD) will gather in Varaždin to reflect on the project’s achievements and shape the future of river restoration in the region.

Co-funded by the European Union under the LIFE Programme, the DRAVA LIFE project has been a pioneering initiative in river restoration and sustainable management along the Drava River, part of the UNESCO Mura-Drava-Danube Biosphere Reserve. Launched in 2015, the project has focused on restoring natural habitats, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting integrated water management through cross-border cooperation across the ‘Amazon of Europe.’ Since its launch in 2015, DL has become a leading example of integrated water management and cross-border cooperation in Europe.

Celebrating a major milestone in regional river restoration

The symposium aims to promote knowledge exchange on river restoration within the TBR MDD, involving Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, and Serbia. Project partners, river restoration experts, and stakeholders from all five countries will discuss the current state of river ecosystems and the importance of a healthy river network. Additionally, discussions will explore how river restoration can contribute to the ambitious goals of the EU Nature Restoration Law, with a particular focus on transboundary and basin-wide sediment management. Success stories of reintroducing riverine plants and managing habitats for bird and fish species will also be highlighted.

“Hosting this Symposium in Varaždin, at the heart of the Drava River, is an honor. It serves as a reminder of the importance of local action in global conservation efforts. The City of Varaždin is grateful to all DL who have made significant strides in restoring this vital river, which has been important to our city and its inhabitants for generations and will continue to be in the future,” said Ms. Slađana Miočić, Head of the Department of Economic Affairs, City of Varaždin.

Milan Rezo, director of the Water Management Department for Mura and Upper Drava in Croatian Waters, stated: “Through this project, Croatian Waters has demonstrated its commitment to innovative and sustainable water management practices. The restoration of the Drava River has shown that it is possible to balance the needs of nature with those of local communities. Recent floods have further underscored the critical importance of sustainable river management, and we will continue to integrate these successful practices to protect both the environment and local populations.”

“This project is a shining example of how we can restore nature while ensuring sustainable development. The EU Nature Restoration Law opens new opportunities for the restoration of rivers and floodplain forests across Europe, and we are proud that the DL project sets a precedent for these future initiatives,” highlighted Igor Kreitmayer from the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition, at the opening of the event.

Jasmin Sadiković from the NGO Green Osijek emphasized the collaborative approach as a key strength of the DRAVA LIFE project. By bringing together NGOs, public institutions, and local communities, remarkable progress has been made in restoring the river’s ecosystems and biodiversity.

“WWF has been dedicated to the protection of the Mura-Drava-Danube region for over 20 years. The designation of the 5-Country Biosphere Reserve in 2021 was a monumental achievement, and the DRAVA LIFE project has been pivotal in restoring river ecosystems in Croatia. As we face the ongoing challenge of reversing ecological degradation, river restoration remains critical—not only for biodiversity but also for improved flood protection, water quality, and recreational opportunities for local communities. WWF will continue to support and advocate for these efforts”, remarked Nataša Kalauz, CEO of WWF Adria.

Looking Ahead

Although the DRAVA LIFE project officially concludes in November 2024, its legacy will continue through future restoration initiatives and the ongoing efforts of partners across the TBR MDD. The symposium provides an opportunity to reflect on past successes while setting the stage for the next steps in safeguarding Europe’s rivers.

Participants will also join an excursion to key restoration sites along the Drava River, witnessing firsthand the remarkable progress achieved through the project and the beauty and biodiversity of the Croatian stretch of the river.