Wastewater and stormwater pollution remain some of the most pressing environmental challenges in the Danube River Basin. To tackle these issues head‑on, the D‑CLEAN project is working across the region to raise awareness, strengthen capacities, and identify practical, innovative solutions that can make a real difference for communities and ecosystems.
A key part of this mission is understanding the diverse needs, concerns, and expectations of those who know the region best: its stakeholders.
That’s where you come in.
As part of its research, the D‑CLEAN team is gathering valuable insights into:
- Current challenges in wastewater (WW) and stormwater (SW) management
- Expectations for cleaner, more efficient systems
- Constraints such as budget limits, regulatory barriers, or technical hurdles
- Local priorities and community perspectives, especially regarding the use of Nature-Based Solutions
Your perspective is essential to ensure that the solutions developed truly meet regional needs and support healthier rivers, resilient communities, and a more sustainable future.
Take part in the D‑CLEAN Stakeholder Survey
Your input will help shape the project’s direction and strengthen efforts across the Danube Region.
Start the survey here:https://forms.office.com/e/ndhuLuhhkh
The survey is available in multiple languages - simply select yours at the beginning. It takes no more than 10 minutes to complete.
Together, we can create cleaner water systems and a brighter future for the entire Danube River Basin.
Your experience and insights matter—thank you for contributing!
We are excited to announce the release of our comprehensive analysis: "Report on current situation on wastewater and stormwater management in small settlements of the Danube River Basin."
As part of the D-CLEAN project, this report serves as a vital foundation for improving water quality across the region by assessing the unique needs and challenges of small settlements. Covering 10 countries and approximately 80% of the basin area, the study provides an unprecedented look at how we can tailor sustainable solutions to local conditions.
Key Findings at a Glance
Our analysis highlights a complex landscape of infrastructure and policy:
- A Diverse Region: While countries like Austria have reached nearly 100% connection rates, many Central and South-eastern European nations still face significant gaps, particularly in rural areas.
- Infrastructure Gaps: In several countries, including Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia, coverage for settlements below 2,000 PE remains very low, often under 5%.
- Stormwater Challenges: Management is generally underdeveloped across the basin, with many settlements facing recurring issues like pluvial flooding, erosion, and combined sewer overflows during intense rainfall.
The Power of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS)
The report identifies Nature-Based Solutions - such as constructed wetlands and rain gardens - as promising pathways for the future. These systems offer several advantages:
- Economic Efficiency: NBS often have significantly lower operational costs compared to conventional systems.
- Environmental Benefits: Beyond water treatment, these solutions support local biodiversity, provide habitat creation, and integrate seamlessly into the rural landscape.
- Proven Success: Best practice examples from Gložan, Serbia and Raka, Slovenia demonstrate that horizontal and vertical flow wetlands can achieve high treatment performance with minimal mechanical needs.
Looking Ahead: The 2024 UWWTD Revision
The revised Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive introduces new mandates for agglomerations between 1,000 and 2,000 PE. This legal shift is expected to help close administrative and financial gaps, driving the investment needed for inclusive, climate-resilient infrastructure.
Read the Full Report
We invite you to explore the full document to view detailed national data, technical challenges, and successful case studies from across the Danube River Basin: D-CLEAN | Library
Together, we are building a more sustainable and water-secure future for the Danube region!
On 22 October 2025 , the first webinar in a series of six organized within the D-CLEAN project will take place, under the theme:“Mapping the Danube Region – Regional Insights into Wastewater and Stormwater Challenges in Small Settlements.”.
D-CLEAN project supports small settlements in the Danube River Basin in improving wastewater and stormwater management through knowledge exchange, capacity building, and the implementation of nature-based solutions.
Topics covered
The webinar will present the results of the regional baseline analysis and the main conclusions regarding:
- existing infrastructure, technologies, and practices,
- strengths and weaknesses of current systems,
- relevant national policies and management plans.
AThe agenda and full details are available on the event page.
For updates, the project can also be followed on LinkedIn or through the D-CLEAN newsletter available on the official website: https://interreg-danube.eu/projects/d-clean
Participation is free of charge, and registration can be completed by clicking the button below.
