Enabling collaborative efforts for systemic change in Estonian river basin management (LIFE SIP WetEST)

LIFE SIP WetEST supports the full implementation of the Western-Estonian River Basin Management Plan (WE RBMP) for 2022–2027, scaling up the Water Framework Directive in Estonia’s largest river basin. The WE RBMP aims to protect water quality, promote sustainable use, and mitigate drought and flood risks. The project introduces innovations in governance and methods to enhance river basin management, including proven solutions from other EU countries. Key focus areas are water-smart rural policies, catchment-scale ecosystem restoration, and pollutant control. With 10 work packages, the project will implement 105 of 163 WE RBMP measures. By the end, 62% of groundwater actions, 25% of surface water actions, and 62% of cross-basin activities will be completed, leveraging complementary funding sources.