WP1 focuses on understanding the geophysical and hydrological context of each study catchment to identify where nature-based solutions (NBS) can be most effectively implemented. The central question is how the current state of the catchment influences water storage, flow, and availability, and how this relates to opportunities for restoration.
To address this, WP1 combines geomorphological, hydrological, and land-use analyses to assess the physical structure and functioning of the catchments. Key factors such as topography, soils, geology, hydrology, and land use are analysed together to evaluate both the natural potential for NBS and the extent to which this potential is currently degraded or constrained.
Building on this foundation, WP1 applies the water battery concept to understand how landscapes store, retain, and release water. This includes assessing water storage capacity, recharge potential, and current pressures such as land-use change, soil degradation, and water abstraction, as well as their effects on hydrological functioning, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.
Finally, WP1 considers the implications of these findings for ecological status and water management objectives. By identifying key pressures, opportunities, and priority areas, WP1 provides the foundation for the following work packages and supports the development of targeted NBS strategies.