Flanders Restores Wetlands to Combat Drought & Floods

Natuurpunt, a Flemish nature organization, is successfully restoring wetlands across Flanders, Belgium, currently capturing over 2 billion liters of water annually in the soil. The organization has already revitalized 300 hectares of the planned 1,500 hectares of wet nature areas, with nearly 1,000 more hectares slated for restoration in the coming year. These restored wetlands function as buffers against both flooding and drought, raising groundwater levels and even cooling local temperatures by up to 5 degrees Celsius.

The project receives funding from European funds and private investors like AB InBev and Coca-Cola, who depend on consistent water supplies. Beyond water management, the wetlands are seeing a return of wildlife, including cranes, sea eagles, and storks.

With over 75 percent of Flanders’ original wetlands lost, Natuurpunt aims to restore as much as 147,000 hectares, and is already planning a second phase of the Wetlandplan. Experts emphasize that government funding alone isn't sufficient, making Natuurpunt's initiative crucial for Flemish water security.