As cities worldwide seek sustainable solutions to manage water resources and build climate resilience, ICLEI Member Aarhus (Denmark) is stepping up as a leading example. Through the NICE project, Aarhus University is driving capacity-building and international collaboration to scale Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) for urban water systems - delivering insights highly relevant for local governments and utility providers.
Local Collaboration: Workshop on NbS for Danish Water Management
In a stakeholder workshop earlier this year convened in Aarhus, local actors from Aarhus University, Aarhus Vand, VandCenter Syd, and other institutions came together to explore how NbS can improve urban water management. Key takeaways from the discussions include:
- Dual benefits: NbS contribute to both ecosystem restoration and public health, making them a strategic asset for local governments working on environmental and social goals.
- Tailored solutions: Implementation must consider local socio-environmental conditions, reinforcing the importance of engaging communities and stakeholders early in project planning.
- Regulation and innovation: Regulatory frameworks need to keep pace with innovation to unlock the full potential of NbS. Insights from real-world pilots are essential to shape forward-looking policy.
These dialogues not only support Danish water governance but also provide replicable models for other municipalities aiming to combine environmental ambition with practical impact.
Aarhus Shares Danish Expertise on Global Stage
NICE’s work is also gaining international traction. At the Danish Water Forum on 30 January, Aarhus University presented promising results from experiments with nano bubbling systems, a pioneering method that enhances water oxygenation and could significantly improve the sustainability of water treatment.
Internationally, NICE researchers recently shared Danish expertise at two major events in Chile, engaging with universities and wetland centres to promote knowledge exchange on NbS for water reuse in diverse climate contexts. These global partnerships enrich Aarhus' own work while supporting a shared international vision for circular water systems.
Capacity Building: Join the Aarhus Summer School
Aarhus University’s commitment to upskilling the next generation of NbS practitioners continues with its upcoming summer school, led by Dr Carlos Arias and a team of experts. The course offers hands-on training in NbS and circular water reuse, equipping students, and professionals with the tools to lead water innovation in their localities.
From stormwater control and urban cooling to water quality and public engagement, Nature-based Solutions offer real value for municipalities. Aarhus’ work within the NICE project illustrates how research institutions can act as innovation hubs for local governments. By collaborating across sectors and borders, cities can build more resilient, healthy, and resource-efficient communities.
Don’t miss the chance to participate in the Aarhus Summer School and bring these ideas home to your city.