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Description
The consequences of the current climate changes are radically manifesting and need practical actions, as mentioned in the Romanian Strategy for Climate Change 2013- 2020. The documents referring to the monitoring of the impact of climate change includes in the chapter Water Resources and protection against flooding, intervention measures and local actions which call for cooperation between NGOs, authorities and local communities to make such interventions more efficient. The project involves communities from Tara Fagarasului (Tara Oltului), local authorities, professional associations, and the academic world in an action whose goal is to diminish the effects of floods and mudslides, observed in recent years in the OLT river basin, by developing an innovative working methodology. During the 24 months of the project, based also on our partners the Romanian Landscape Architects Association – West and Northwest Branch and the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca vast experience, we propose the development of a working methodology that uses new technologies for scanning the waterways, mapping of the vegetation, analyzing the soil layers and processing the data obtained in order to increase the level of education of local actors, awareness of the methods of environmental protection through interactive workshops in which the technology used is explained in simple and easy to assimilate terms, environmental responsibility and follow-up activities and stimulation of participation in practical activities of cleaning and greening of waterways in Tara Oltului. The project contributes to the achievement of the Strategic Objectives for Sustainable Development, as well as to the long-term fulfilment of target III for 2030 in the National Strategy for sustainable development of Romania 2030.
Summary of project results
The SMART RIVER CLUSTER project was launched to address the degradation of mountain rivers in Romania, focusing on the Cârțișoara River. Key challenges include ecological fragmentation caused by human interventions, organic pollution, increased flood frequency due to climate change, and a lack of education on river conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
Key activities and deliverables:
1. Research and data collection: LiDAR aerial scans and photogrammetry, biological studies (ichthyofauna, macrobenthos), geomorphological and hydraulic analyses, long-term river dynamics assessments, historical, geospatial, and anthropological analyses.
2. Methodological development and pilot interventions: creating an innovative methodology for ecological reconstruction, landscape planning along 3 km of the Cârțișoara River, and proposals for restoring riparian vegetation.
3. Community engagement and education: organization of workshops and awareness campaigns for local communities and University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj students, alongside project promotion at the Venice Architecture Biennale.
The SMART RIVER CLUSTER project has a significant impact on multiple levels. For communities, it raises awareness about river conservation and promotes the adoption of sustainable solutions to prevent flooding. For the environment, it supports the development of plans aimed at reducing pollution and protecting endangered species. In the realm of public policy, the project serves as a model for the Sibiu County Territorial Plan and is being integrated into climate adaptation strategies.
By addressing challenges related to biodiversity, climate change, and education, the project offers a replicable framework for conserving mountain rivers and fostering resilient communities. Its efforts contribute to creating a sustainable future for both the environment and future generations.