Nijmegen (Netherlands): Data-driven management of water quality and safety in an urban river recreation area

Urban, river recreational activities can be managed more safely by combining quick-response environmental monitoring with behavioural data to support timely, evidence-based decisions. By using qPCR water quality testing to detect short-term microbiological risks and sensors to monitor dangerous behaviour such as bridge jumping, authorities can intervene in a targeted and cost-effective way. This approach reduces reliance on large-scale infrastructure investments, supports safe access to water for cooling and recreation, and enables cities to steer river use based on actual conditions rather than delayed or anecdotal information.

This good practice also includes objectives 4.4 (Developing collaborative approaches and drawing on scientific and technologic knowledge from the scientific community and civil society to support decision-making) and 4.5 (Adopting a land management policy that strikes a balance between urban uses and the active port, especially on the waterfront) of the AIVP’s Agenda 2030.