Project structure

WP1 Revision, integration, and harmonization across realms and scales of knowledge and data towards the integrative modelling of ES

WP1 will integrate and harmonize diverse datasets—including Earth observation, in-situ measurements, and scientific literature—across spatial, temporal, and thematic scales to support robust modelling of ecosystem services (ES) linked to eutrophication. This work package will create a unified data framework that directly supports the development of cross-realm ES and eutrophication models in subsequent project phases.

WP2 Interlinkages between Ecosystem Services and Eutrophication

WP2 will develop spatially explicit, process-based models of ES that are affected by or help mitigate eutrophication across freshwater, coastal, and marine realms. Using tools like SWAT+, this work package will generate reliable, scalable outputs. These models will be informed by harmonized datasets and will form the foundation for the decision support tool in WP3.

WP3 Spatial prioritization of NBS

WP3 will develop spatial prioritization tools to identify the most effective types and locations of NBS for mitigating eutrophication across the freshwater–coastal–marine continuum. Building on the ES models from WP2, this work package will optimize NBS placement by balancing demand, suitability, ES synergies, and ES trade-offs. Using and enhancing existing decision support tools, WP3 will provide stakeholders with practical guidance for implementing NBS where they can deliver the greatest ecological and societal benefits.

WP4 Stakeholders integration & Recommendations for Policy uptake

WP4 will facilitate the uptake of CREATE’s outputs by engaging stakeholders across sectors (such as river basin management, agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, and conservation) in the co-creation of governance tools that support ecosystem-based management. Through interviews, workshops, and scenario building, this WP will identify barriers and opportunities for implementing NBS, while also promoting public awareness. The results will inform policy recommendations to support the integration of ecosystem services and NBS into land and water management practices.