In preparation for its annual flagship event, Water Innovation Europe (WIE) 2026, Water Europe is pleased to announce a specialized webinar aimed at guiding applicants through the newly updated 2026 European Water-Smart Awards. The webinar will introduce several significant changes to the awards program, including updated categories and a prestigious new distinction dedicated exclusively to Water-Oriented Living Labs (WOLLs).

The webinar focuses on social equity and social justice in Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) , with particular attention to deep democracy in NBS co-creation and co-management, especially in relation to water management. It aims to introduce the concept of a Just Green Transition, its objectives and place within European policy, emphasising the role of NBS in advancing social justice.

The AWR4Climate Cluster projects — RECREATE, AWARD and MARCLAIMED — are developing innovative Alternative Water Resources (AWR) solutions across Europe. This webinar will introduce the WOLL concept and the pathway towards WOLL recognition to case studies from across the Cluster, providing a practical framework to help sustain, strengthen and scale their activities while maximising their long-term territorial impact.

The IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition is the leading global event for water and allied professionals, covering the full water cycle. Held every two years by the International Water Association, it brings together thought-leaders, decision makers, top researchers, and business innovators from across and beyond the water sector to shape the future of water.

This year, Water Innovation Europe event is heading to Dublin, Ireland on 13 October 2026 under the theme of Raisin the bar for the Water Framework Directive. This year the topic will focus on implementation and how we can collectively make it happen. This edition aims to go beyond the current political context where the water acquis is under pressure through the Omnibus a packages, and the collective failure to achieve the WFD objectives by 2027.

The 2026 United Nations Water Conference, co-hosted by the United Arab Emirates and Senegal, aims to accelerate the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. The Conference will take place in the United Arab Emirates from 2–4 December 2026.