Why does the state of water concern everyone?

Water is the foundation of life, connecting all living organisms. However, Luxembourg's water system is facing increasing challenges. The quality of water as a habitat for diverse species and the water supply for humans in river basins depends largely on the interaction of three main factors: seasonal precipitation, the geological and ecological makeup of the river basin, and human land and water use and wastewater treatment.

Despite the legally binding requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive and the corresponding Luxembourg law to improve the state of water by 2027, not a single one of the over 100 examined water bodies is in good ecological condition. The nutrient content is generally too high, few bodies of water provide sufficient habitat for fauna and flora, and there is a lack of habitats and structures that can only develop when they have enough space and are protected by riparian zones. Official data is available on the Geoportail.

Luxembourg has been the fastest-growing country in the EU for decades, with a population of around 620,000 people, growing by about 10,000 annually. In addition, nearly 200,000 commuters enter the country every day. This puts even more pressure on the already stressed water system.

Purpose of the WasserLux App

Citizen science can play a vital role in regenerating healthy water bodies that can support biodiversity and help us cope with extreme weather events. By complementing official data, citizen science can provide important insights and help us better understand our water systems.

Join the movement to unleash the power of citizen science! Together, we can take action to protect our precious water resources and build a better future for all. By participating in citizen science initiatives, we can help regenerate healthy water bodies and ensure a sustainable world for generations to come.