MULTISOURCE Deliverable 4.2. Establishment of an international knowledge base on NBSWT and ENTS

The MULTISOURCE project presents a groundbreaking initiative in the realm of nature-based solutions for urban water management. This comprehensive report outlines the project's overarching objective: to streamline citywide planning through the integration of enhanced natural treatment systems and decision-support tools. At its core, the project establishes a robust knowledge base, spanning 53 technologies, with a focus on urban water treatment, storage, and reuse.
The Nature-Based Solution (NBS) technology selection tool, a key deliverable of MULTISOURCE, emerges as a pivotal asset. By combining data from experts and from literature into a knowledge base, this tool empowers stakeholders and decision-makers to make informed choices tailored to specific water scenarios. Factors such as cost, environmental impact, and operational needs are considered, ensuring a holistic approach to decision-making.

Data collection methods employed in the project include elicitation workshops, expert assessments, literature review and data analysis. A notable inclusion is the database of scientific publications, boasting 894 entries and providing a dynamic reference point for technology insights. Users can actively contribute to the database, ensuring its continuous enrichment and relevance.

Modelling of the required surface for different water treatment technologies reveals insights from 647 sampling campaigns, shedding light on NBS technology performance. Challenges, including data imbalances and missing values, are acknowledged, emphasizing the need for careful interpretation.

In line with principles of transparency, the knowledge base, API, and raw data files are made readily accessible following the FAIR principles. The MULTISOURCE project not only advances the understanding of nature-based solutions but also establishes a collaborative framework, fostering collective progress in water treatment and stormwater management.