D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies

D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 1 D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies January 2025 Evdokia Bairampa (Three o’clock) Data driven implementation of hybrid nature-based solutions for preventing and managing diffuse pollution from urban water runoff Ref. Ares(2025)4480154 - 04/06/2025 D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 2 D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies Work Package WP6 Deliverable lead Three o’clock Author(s) Evdokia Bairampa (Three o’clock) Contributors: VCS, AQUALIA, ITG, University of Cantabria, MITIGA, ACQUE SPA Contact [email protected]u Grant Agreement number 101060638 Start date of the project / Duration 1 September 2022 / 42 months Type of deliverable (R, DEM, DEC, other) DEM Dissemination level (PU, SEN) PU Project website www.d4runoff.eu Document history Version Date Detailed updates 0.1 22.01.2025 3OC sent the deliverable for internal review 0.2 23.01.2025 3OC sent the deliverable to the case study leaders and VCS for review 1.0 29.01.2025 3OC received input from the partners, integrated in the document and sent the deliverable for submission to INCOTEC 1.1 29.05.2025 3OC received input from the partners (especially those involved in WP5) to address the PO questions 1.2 02.06.2025 Based on the input from partners, 3OC updated the following parts: • 2.1.1.2 Odense, • 2.1.1.3 Pontedera • 2.2 Gamification Challenges • Chapter 4 Impact achieved in the 2nd project period D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 3 R=Document, report; DEM=Demonstrator, pilot, prototype; DEC=website, patent fillings, videos, etc.; OTHER=other PU=Public, SEN=Sensitive, limited under the conditions of the GA ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101060638. COPYRIGHT STATEMENT The work described in this document has been conducted within the D4RUNOFF project. This document reflects only the D4RUNOFF Consortium views, and the European Union is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains. This document and its content are the property of the D4RUNOFF Consortium. All rights relevant to this document are determined by the applicable laws. Access to this document does not grant any right or license on the document or its contents. This document or its contents are not to be used or treated in any manner inconsistent with the rights or interests of the D4RUNOFF Consortium or the Partners detriment and are not to be disclosed externally without prior written consent from the D4RUNOFF Partners. Each D4RUNOFF Partner may use this document in conformity with the D4RUNOFF Consortium Grant Agreement provisions. • A new chapter (3) has been added in relation with the tools and technologies which will be adopted in the pilots. 2.0 0.2.06.2025 3OC sends the D6.9 for final review to partners 2.1 04.06.2025 3OC sends the deliverable for submission D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 4 Executive Summary Polluted urban water runoff poses a significant risk to public health and biodiversity. Changing rainfall patterns, which contribute to storm overflows, and the identification of emerging contaminants (CECs) are exacerbating these challenges. It is essential for urban planners, policymakers, and water utilities to collaborate in mitigating the effects of diffuse pollution. One scalable approach to address this issue is the implementation of hybrid Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). By identifying and monitoring water pollutants, their sources, and impacts, NBS can be adapted and scaled according to social needs, policy frameworks, and urban design considerations. The knowledge, synergies, and insights gained from the three pilot locations—Odense (Denmark), Santander (Spain), and Pontedera (Italy)—play a pivotal role in advancing hybrid NBS as effective and scalable solutions. This document provides a detailed report on the stakeholder engagement activities conducted during the second project period M19-M29, as well as actions and references that extend to the end of the project. The primary objectives include enhancing interaction and communication with local communities to maximise project impact, keeping stakeholders informed, improving understanding of the impacts of urban runoff, and promoting the project’s results. Key activities include: • Engagement and close collaboration with stakeholders in Odense and Santander • Pilot visits of stakeholders and students of different age groups (+50 visitors) • Citizen engagement activities in Santander by the University of Cantabria (more than 30 kids and teenagers played a board game developed in D4RUNOFF) • Collaboration with MOVIOLA project funded by Acque spA, the University of Florence and Tuscany region • Initial testing of the gamification challenge with 8 international students D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 5 Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................... 6 1.1 Purpose of the document ......................................................................................... 6 1.1.1 Scope of the document ......................................................................................... 6 2 Implemented activities in the pilot areas in the 2nd project period ............................. 7 2.1 Local engagement activities ..................................................................................... 7 2.1.1.1 Santander ..................................................................................................... 7 2.1.1.2 Odense ......................................................................................................... 9 2.1.1.3 Pontedera ................................................................................................... 10 2.2 Gamification challenges ......................................................................................... 12 2.3 Board game developed by the University of Cantabria .......................................... 14 2.4 Dissemination of the local engagement activities ................................................... 16 2.4.1.1 Website and social media activities ............................................................ 16 2.4.1.2 Further dissemination efforts ...................................................................... 17 3 Tools and Technologies to be tested/adapted in the pilot areas ............................. 19 4 Impact achieved in the pilot areas in the 2nd project period ..................................... 21 5 Roadmap until the end of the project .......................................................................... 22 6 Conclusions ................................................................................................................... 24 List of Tables Table 1 Italian stakeholders’ engagement activities – past and future ................................... 11 Table 2 Roadmap of the dissemination actions in the case study areas ............................... 22 List of Figures Figure 1 AQUALIA & the University of Cantabria met representatives of Santander city council ................................................................................................................................................. 8 Figure 2 Moments from students’ visits in the Las Llamas Park .............................................. 9 Figure 3 Students participate in the gamification challenge .................................................... 13 Figure 4 Board game designed by UC ................................................................................... 15 Figure 5 Social media posts on pilot visits .............................................................................. 16 Figure 6 Moments at the EU Researchers' Night 2024 .......................................................... 17 Figure 7 Las Llamas park featured at the poster exhibition ................................................... 18 D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 6 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Purpose of the document This document outlines and reports on the stakeholder engagement activities conducted during the second project period at the local level, primarily in the two case study sites: Odense (Denmark) and Santander (Spain). The stakeholder and citizen activities in Pontedera have been postponed to the final project period due to a major amendment process and a partner change. Despite these delays, some updates are included in this report. Additionally, the document addresses Specific Objective (SO) 7 – knowledge transfer and engagement with stakeholders, including civil society. 1.1.1 Scope of the document This deliverable covers the following points: • The implementation of the stakeholder activities in the pilot areas in the 2nd project period • Citizen engagement activities • Future activities from M30 onwards • The tools and technologies which will be implemented in the pilot areas D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 7 2 Implemented activities in the pilot areas in the 2nd project period The primary objectives of stakeholder engagement activities in the pilot areas—Santander, Odense, and Pontedera—are to establish meaningful interactions and facilitate effective communication with local communities, ensuring the project’s impact is maximised at the grassroot level. These activities are designed to achieve several key outcomes: • Enhancing local awareness: Educate local stakeholders about the progress and technical aspects of urban runoff management, particularly focusing on the implementation of nature-based solutions (NBS) to address these challenges. • Promoting understanding: Raise public and stakeholder awareness of the environmental and societal impacts of urban runoff—including pollution and flooding— while emphasising the role of innovative, sustainable solutions in mitigating these issues. • Encouraging collaboration: Foster strong engagement among diverse local stakeholders—such as municipalities, water management authorities, community organisations, and residents—to promote collaboration and co-creation of practical, scalable solutions. • Showcasing results: Disseminate the project’s findings and achievements effectively, ensuring stakeholders are informed about the benefits, successes, and lessons learned in the pilot areas. By actively involving local communities, these activities aim to bridge the gap between research, practical implementation, and community needs. This approach not only ensures the project’s outcomes contribute to more sustainable urban runoff management but also serves as an inspiration for similar initiatives across Europe. 2.1 Local engagement activities The following sections outline the stakeholder and citizen engagement activities conducted in the three pilot areas, with a particular emphasis on those in Santander and Odense. For Pontedera, only limited updates are provided, focusing on planned future initiatives. 2.1.1.1 Santander The University of Cantabria (UC) and AQUALIA have fostered robust collaborations with water companies, civil society organisations, and the Santander Council Municipality to address environmental challenges using Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). These efforts are conducted alongside their ongoing work within the D4RUNOFF project to promote sustainable urban water management practices and innovative solutions to urban runoff issues. Additionally, these interactions have allowed to share and exchange points of view, present the results of the project and discuss upcoming actions regarding the progress of the project and its impact. To disseminate the results of Work Package 3 (WP3) and share the overall progress of D4RUNOFF, different efforts and engagement activities have taken place in Santander. These initiatives have been pivotal in fostering stakeholder engagement and public awareness. D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 8 Stakeholder Meetings with Santander City Council (22 September 2024 / 14 January 2025) AQUALIA and UC met with representatives from the Santander City Council to further solidify their engagement as key stakeholders in the D4RUNOFF project. This meeting focused on the Santander Case Study, which centers on improving the urban drainage system through NBS. During the session, D4RUNOFF partners provided updates on the progress of work packages, shared key findings from WP3, and outlined the next steps for WP5 activities. Regular stakeholder meetings like these are critical for ensuring transparent communication and codevelopment of solutions. An additional stakeholder meeting has also been organised on the 25th of January. Figure 1 AQUALIA & the University of Cantabria met representatives of Santander city council European Researchers’ Night in Santander (24 September 2024) UC hosted an engaging event as part of the European Researchers’ Night, featuring a board game they developed. This interactive activity highlighted the city of Santander and demonstrated how NBS can tackle urban runoff issues, such as flooding and diffuse pollution. Families participated actively, gaining insights into how these solutions enhance climate resilience and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, UC researcher Jorge Rodriguez conducted an experiment to showcase the benefits of permeable pavements in conserving stormwater quality and restoring the natural water cycle. The event’s success was amplified through the project's social media channels, receiving high engagement. Pilot visits to Las Llamas Park The University of Cantabria organised four immersive educational site visits to Las Llamas Park, tailored to engage visitors of all ages, from students to senior citizens. Students were coming wordwide (EU, America, Asia, Africa) . D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 9 These guided tours were designed to showcase the park’s unique features, with a particular focus on the improvements made to the urban drainage system through the implementation of nature-based solutions. Participants were introduced to innovative measures such as permeable pavements, constructed wetlands, and green corridors, which work together to manage stormwater runoff, reduce flood risks, and improve water quality. UC experts provided detailed explanations of how these solutions mimic natural processes to address urban runoff challenges, demonstrating their benefits in mitigating environmental impacts while enhancing biodiversity within the park. The visits at Las Llamas pilot area not only increased public awareness about the role of NBS in sustainable urban development but also highlighted the broader societal and environmental benefits, including climate resilience and improved quality of urban spaces. By engaging diverse audiences and encouraging dialogue, the visits helped strengthen the connection between the local community and the D4RUNOFF project, inspiring participants to support and advocate for similar initiatives in their own countries. Figure 2 Moments from students’ visits in the Las Llamas Park The University of Cantabria has shared all relevant materials, photos, and feedback from these activities with 3OC, enabling the project’s dissemination team to create impactful social media content and ensure broad visibility for these initiatives. These efforts collectively reinforce the project's objectives of fostering collaboration, raising awareness, and promoting sustainable urban water management practices. 2.1.1.2 Odense VCS, the organisation leading the Odense case study, brings extensive experience in collaborating with municipalities, local communities, and researchers on projects centered around nature-based solutions. With a strong track record of successful partnerships, VCS has already utilised its expertise and well-established networks to enhance stakeholder engagement in the D4RUNOFF project. These efforts will aim to foster active participation, knowledge exchange, and awareness among key stakeholders in the Odense area. Engagement activities within the case study region are set to commence with the start of WP5. Among the planned initiatives is an Open Day event, designed to welcome local stakeholders, experts, and the broader public. This event, scheduled to occur after M25, will serve as an D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 16 This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote public understanding of sustainable urban solutions. The board game, together with the D4RUNOFF card game, will be published on the project’s website in a later stage, making it widely available for educational institutions, communities, and other stakeholders. This approach not only fosters awareness but also inspires proactive involvement in creating greener and more sustainable cities. The Board game has been tested in the 2024 Researchers Night and planned to be used in the next Researchers Night. 2.4 Dissemination of the local engagement activities Partners worked in close collaboration with 3OC and promptly provided materials, photos, recommendations and feedback for dissemination purposes. 2.4.1.1 Website and social media activities The local engagement efforts of the partners have often been featured on the social media platforms of the project and listed in the news section of the website. Also, these activities were highlighted in the closing video of the project for 2024 which was shared on the D4RUNOFF social media platforms. Below there are different posts related to these engagement activities. Figure 5 Social media posts on pilot visits D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 17 Figure 6 Moments at the EU Researchers' Night 2024 2.4.1.2 Further dissemination efforts D4RUNOFF partners have actively participated in various online and in-person events beyond the pilot areas to disseminate the progress achieved in the pilots. At the Network Nature Annual Conference in Brussels, 3OC showcased the Las Llamas pilot during the poster exhibition. The event attracted interest from representatives of sister projects and NBS (Nature-Based Solutions) experts who were keen to learn about D4RUNOFF’s technological innovations and the current phase of their implementation and testing, particularly in Las Llamas Park. Additionally, some stakeholders expressed interest in further collaboration with the project and registered to join the D4RUNOFF Stakeholder Gathering Forum. D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 18 Figure 7 Las Llamas park featured at the poster exhibition On 17 October 2024, Nicolas Morales from AQUALIA represented D4RUNOFF in a webinar titled 'WIN Water Meeting: Applications of Sponge City Concepts in Europe,' organised by WINWAY, a partner of the REWAISE project. During the webinar, our partner highlighted Las Llamas Park, showcasing the nature-based solutions currently being implemented, such as the wetland, permeable pavement car parks, and wastewater systems. Additionally, an overview of the expected impacts of D4RUNOFF in the pilot area was provided. Highlights from the webinar have been shared on the project's social media channels. D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 19 3 Tools and Technologies to be tested/adapted in the pilot areas The Risk Assessment Module developed within the D4RUNOFF framework is a comprehensive modelling tool designed to evaluate the risks associated with urban runoff pollution under both current and future climate scenarios. The model integrates diverse datasets—including precipitation, land use, and pollutant dynamics—to simulate runoff generation, pollutant transport, and assess the likelihood of exceeding pollutant-specific thresholds. Its ultimate goal is to support informed decision-making and resilient urban water management. Testing and Pilot Implementation in Odense As part of Task 5.2, the module is currently being tested in the Municipality of Odense. This process combines historical datasets with synthetically generated data derived from stochastic methods and AI-based transfer learning. Data from WP5 activities (T5.1 and T5.3) are also being incorporated to strengthen model calibration and validation. A number of preparatory actions have been undertaken, including: • Selection and preparation of designated test areas. • Coordination with technical partners to enable seamless data integration. • Deployment of real-time water quality sensors and installation of local monitoring dashboards. • Integration of AI-assisted models to enhance stormwater forecasting and management capabilities. In parallel, a series of stakeholder engagement activities are being conducted with local authorities, municipal planners, and utilities. These interactions help tailor the model’s features—such as interface design and result visualisation—ensuring it remains relevant and user-friendly for end-users. Implementation and Preparatory Activities in Santander Significant groundwork has also been carried out in Santander, with activities spanning multiple work packages (WP1, WP2, WP4, WP5). Wetland and Permeable Parking Lot Sampling (WP1 & WP5.1): Coordination meetings were held with UCP, INL, UC, and AQUALIA to design a comprehensive sampling plan. Spot samples were taken from the Las Llamas wetland and permeable parking lot, contributing to the early analysis of key physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters. Sensor Installation and Testing (WP2 & WP5.3): The INL sensor is being tested at the Las Llamas pumping station, selected for its strategic position near the wetland. Preliminary site visits were conducted to evaluate potential disturbances (e.g., vibrations). Water samples collected at this site will be used to validate both the INL sensor performance and advanced analysis techniques developed under WP1. The comparative analysis will ensure consistency between sensor output and laboratory results. D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 20 Long-Term Sampling Campaign (WP5.1): A bimonthly sampling campaign ran from July 2024 to February 2025, collecting data at both the wetland inlet and outlet. These samples offer representative insights into the site's pollution mitigation performance. Additional sampling in the permeable parking lot further enriched the dataset. Sensor Deployment in Wetland Outlet (WP5.3): In November 2024, water quality and elevation sensors were installed in the wetland outlet gallery. These devices allow real-time monitoring and continuous data collection to support AIassisted water quality assessments. Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) and GIS Mapping (WP4): MCDA was applied to the Santander case study, integrating geospatial data to generate an NBS usage map, supporting evidence-based scenario evaluation and model customisation. Platform Integration (WP4): The D4RUNOFF platform is being prepared to host all relevant data and visual outputs from the Santander pilot, ensuring seamless access and further use in risk assessment and planning. D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 21 4 Impact achieved in the pilot areas in the 2nd project period The D4RUNOFF project has demonstrated remarkable achievements in its pilot areas by actively engaging local communities and fostering stakeholder collaboration. In Santander, Spain, activities such as educational site visits to Las Llamas Park, workshops, and public events like the European Researchers’ Night have significantly enhanced public awareness of urban runoff challenges and the potential of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS). These initiatives have not only educated participants about sustainable urban drainage systems but also strengthened the local community’s connection to environmental sustainability efforts. By showcasing innovations such as permeable pavements, green corridors, and constructed wetlands, these efforts have inspired public advocacy for greener urban environments and demonstrated the tangible benefits of NBS in reducing flood risks and improving water quality. Similarly, the pilot activities in Odense, Denmark, have underscored the project's commitment to fostering collaboration among municipalities, water authorities, and residents. The highprofile Danish Water Association conference and guided tours of the Odense case study area have positioned D4RUNOFF as a critical initiative in addressing Denmark’s water management challenges. These engagements provided stakeholders with firsthand insights into the practical implementation of NBS, facilitating dialogue on sustainable urban water practices and strengthening networks for future collaboration. By effectively integrating research findings with practical applications, the Odense pilot has laid a robust foundation for the broader adoption of NBS across Denmark. In the Pontedera pilot area, the D4RUNOFF project has established cooperation with a diverse set of stakeholders including local authorities, academic institutions, water authorities, engineering firms, and citizens. These collaborations have already resulted in both knowledge exchange and integration of D4RUNOFF tools into urban planning discussions. Following the stakeholder meeting and the Open Day, this engagement has not only raised awareness but also initiated early steps toward the policy and operational integration of D4RUNOFF tools and methodologies. Communication and dissemination in the area will be strengthened, particularly following administrative delays, and will continue with the upcoming public events and collaborations. The project’s approaches, such as the gamification challenge and the interactive board game developed by the University of Cantabria, have further amplified its impact. These tools are proving to be engaging for diverse audiences, including students, families, and professionals. They not only promote the understanding of NBS and sustainable drainage systems but also foster creativity and problem-solving skills. The dissemination of these activities through social media, blogs, and conferences has extended the project's reach, ensuring that lessons learned and best practices from the pilot areas are shared widely. Collectively, these efforts highlight D4RUNOFF's success in advancing sustainable urban water management and inspiring similar initiatives across Europe. D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 22 5 Roadmap until the end of the project Below is a table listing the upcoming stakeholder and citizen engagement activities in the pilot areas, as well as dissemination activities related to the installation of the D4RUNOFF innovations in the pilots. Table 2 Roadmap of the dissemination actions in the case study areas Activities Target groups Expected impact 2 Open Days (Pontedera, Odense) Universities, local and national authorities, water management companies, citizens, sister projects Dissemination and test of the D4RUNOFF technological solutions (social module of the AI-assisted platform, major research outcomes from all WPs), Learn about water pollution, challenges and potential solutions through educational programmes for citizens (card games, climate fresks, Lego serious play) Webinars focused on the work in case studies (in collaboration with WATERUN and STOP UP) Sister projects, water / NBS professionals, policy officers Collective dissemination of the key outcomes of the projects from different pilot areas Potential joint papers for policymakers and other authorities NICE webinar on NBS in the Danish water management system (VCS pending decision) Researchers, technical operators and experts working in the water management system Dissemination of the work done in the Municipality of Odense Network Nature Task Force 2 NBS experts, policy experts, EU funded projects in water sector Dissemination of the D4RUNOFF results and activities done in the case studies Network opportunities with other EU projects Potential collaboration and knowledge sharing Min 2 articles on the EU and scientific magazines All target groups Winder dissemination of project’s research findings and applications D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 23 (Innovation News Portal, Horizon Magazine) 1 video focused on the case studies Roadmap of the dissemination actions in the case study areas All target groups Winder dissemination of project’s research findings and applications Cards game Schools, educational entities, organisations Translated to the Italian, Spanish and Portuguese and potentially Danish (if requested) Considering that the discussions regarding the above activities are at a preliminary stage, some changes may occur depending on the consortium's capacities. D6.9 Intermediate progress report on the actions carried out in the case studies 24 6 Conclusions In this deliverable, we have described and reported on the stakeholder engagement activities carried out in the pilot areas between M19 and M29. The main objective of these activities was to strengthen interaction and communication with local audiences, ensuring that stakeholders were kept informed about the technical developments of the case studies, raising awareness of the impacts of urban runoff, and initiating the dissemination of the project's results and outputs. However, due to certain administrative delays, some stakeholder engagement activities have been rescheduled for the final phase of the project. All partners remain fully committed to meeting the outlined objectives. In collaboration with local partners, 3OC will organise these activities to enhance engagement with local stakeholders and citizens, ensuring effective interaction and outreach.