The citizen and research project Drinkable Scheldt dreams of a river that is so clean again that you can safely drink from it. The initiative, which originated with the Dutch foundation Drinkable Rivers, brings together organisations and volunteers from France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Under the name Drinkable Scheldt, they work together with citizens, schools and scientists to measure and improve the water quality of the river. Through citizen science, water samples are taken and analysed at various locations, providing a better picture of pollution sources and trends. In addition to collecting data, the project focuses on raising awareness: a drinkable Schelde requires a new approach to agriculture, industry, waste and nature.
Irrawaddy Earth is now actively joining this initiative and playing an important role in Flanders. The organisation coordinates the Flemish part of the Drinkable Scheldt Walk 2025, co-wrote a first draft of the declaration of intent for a Drinkable Scheldt and is committed to community building around the theme. In doing so, Irrawaddy Earth helps to strengthen the project and connect more people and organisations with the dream of a clean, healthy and ultimately drinkable Scheldt.