VITO's vision for sustainable impact: Clean water technologies and cross-cultural collaborations in the Scheldt Valley
VITO, a pioneering research organization, is dedicated to creating significant impact in three domains: sustainable resources, climate and sustainable living environment. One of our initiatives focuses on developing and advancing clean water technologies, including nature-based solutions to ensure a reliable supply of clean water.
Image: Aerial photo of the Lippenbroek © Yves Adams (Vilda)
Commitment to innovation through S+T+ARTS4WATERII
By combining art, technology, and science, S+T+ARTS4WaterII is committed to tackling the complex environmental and societal challenges present in Europe’s ports and port cities. This project, coordinated by VITO, enhances collaborative artistic research, creation and innovation in different port cities and their related ecosystems and industries across eight countries.
A total of 20 residencies, facilitated by the 10 consortium partners, will be realized within this project. The winning artists of these residencies will be announced soon. VITO is involved in the residency of the Scheldt Valley in Belgium: cross-cultural collaborations with and for water.
The Scheldt Valley: a living lab for clean water solutions
The Scheldt Valley, a picturesque region engaging 24 communities between Oudenaarde and Antwerp and passing through Ghent, was recently declared a National Park. This area is a major part of the Flemish-Dutch Scheldt Delta, which has been nominated as a UNESCO Geopark, recognizing its unique international geological significance. The Scheldt Valley's distinct landscape and ecological value make it an ideal living lab for VITO's clean water technologies and nature-based solutions. In this living lab, VITO aims to tackle water sustainability challenges by implementing innovative, science-driven solutions.
Collaborative engagement
By engaging in this the residence of the Scheldt Valley, we stimulate cooperation with various stakeholders, including citizens, researchers, companies and policymakers. The interaction between artists and researchers is particularly valuable, as it fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives.
The collaboration between artists and researchers can open minds and inspire innovative solutions to the challenges of maintaining a robust water system. This interdisciplinary approach strengthens the importance of clean water and highlights the complex issues our water system faces.
Engaging citizens and communities
By involving the 24 communities surrounding the Scheldt Valley, we aim to build a broad-based movement towards water sustainability. Our collaboration with festival STROOM, which is deeply committed to sustainability challenges, allows us to reach a wide audience interested in our impact domains.
Through collaborative events, workshops and activities, we strive to raise awareness and encourage active participation in clean water initiatives. These efforts highlight not only the scientific aspects of our work but also celebrate the cultural significance of water.
The benefits of collaboration
The residence of the Scheldt Valley serves as a breeding ground for our research on clean water technologies and nature-based solutions. By engaging in this project, we stimulate cooperation with different stakeholders, including citizens. Moreover, the interaction between artists and researchers enriches our perspectives and ideas, strengthening the importance of clean water and the challenges our water system faces.
A sustainable future through innovation and collaboration
By integrating clean water technologies, engaging communities, and fostering cross-cultural artistic collaborations, we aim to create a lasting impact on water sustainability. Together with artists, researchers and citizens, we are building a future where clean water is accessible to all.
