Higher seminar: Bridging nature and culture: Governance processes for river landscapes

This presentation explores governance processes for river landscapes, highlighting the interplay between local knowledge, cultural heritage, and scientific expertise. A central focus will be on River Contracts, a collaborative governance tool used primarily in France, Belgium, and Italy across various projects and contexts. By examining real-world examples, I will analyse how these agreements combine local community knowledge with technical and scientific approaches to promote sustainable water management. These processes foster collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring not only ecological preservation but also socio-economic development and cultural heritage enhancement. Through case studies, I will highlight the challenges, successes, and lessons learned, demonstrating how effective governance can bridge ecological protection with cultural preservation and community-driven development.