FAQ

A sponge landscape is a landscape that can retain water and release it slowly, like a sponge. Forests, hedges, and grasslands help rainwater slowly soak into the soil. This reduces flooding and replenishes groundwater during dry periods. Due to deforestation, drainage, and construction, this balance has been disrupted, increasing the risk of both flooding and water scarcity.

Sponge operates in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine, in the border region around cities such as Maastricht, Liège, Aachen, and Hasselt. Partners from the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany work together on landscape-scale solutions. Because water does not stop at borders, cooperation across the whole region is essential.

Sponge focuses on organizations that work with the landscape. This includes landowners, agricultural organizations, and nature organizations in the Euregio Meuse-Rhine. They can submit ideas for measures that help retain water and reduce flooding.

Sponge provides financial support for local initiatives. Landowners, agricultural organizations, and nature organizations can apply for 50% co-funding for nature-based measures in the landscape. In the Netherlands, this can even go up to 80% co-funding. Examples include planting hedges and trees, creating wadi’s, or redesigning land so water is retained longer and released more slowly.

In addition to financial support, Sponge offers practical guidance, access to proven solutions, and support through a strong Euregio-wide network.

Do you have questions or would you like to share an idea with us? Please contact the programme management via:
[email protected]

Do you have a specific question about submitting your project application? Please contact [email protected]