From September 27 to 30, 2023, NexusNet successfully organized a landmark multi-event in Split, Croatia, which convened stakeholders, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from various regions of Europe to facilitate the transition from Nexus thinking to practical implementation. This four-day event was held at the Faculty of Economics, Business and Tourism, University of Split (FEBT), under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Croatia.

The program encompassed several significant activities, including the 4th Management Committee (MC) meeting, the Regional Stakeholder Forum, Working Group (WG) sessions, the inaugural event of the Mentoring Program, and a series of practical workshops. This extensive agenda underscores NexusNet’s dedication to fostering integrated solutions for the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus and promoting a low-carbon economy across Europe and beyond.

Day 1: WEFE Nexus Tools and Core Group Activities

The inaugural day focused on internal coordination, with the NexusNet Core Group and Working Groups convening in parallel meetings to assess progress and delineate forthcoming initiatives. A concurrent Pre-Forum Workshop, facilitated by Dr. Svetlana Klessova from the G.A.C. Group, acquainted participants with advanced WEFE Nexus tools, featuring innovations from the NEXOGENESIS project, as well as discussions regarding the NEPAT tool and user-validated policy packages. The day’s activities culminated in a networking cocktail reception, providing an informal environment for participants to engage and establish connections.

Day 2: Regional Stakeholder Forum – From Thinking to Implementation

The second day included the NexusNet Regional Stakeholder Forum, entitled “From Nexus Thinking to Nexus Implementation in South Europe and Beyond”. The forum commenced with introductory remarks delivered by Professor Chrysi Laspidou of University of Thessaly, who serves as the chair of NexusNet, along with Professor Srećko Goić, Professor Vinko Muštra, and Professor Dragan Ljutić, the Rector of the University of Split.

The forum comprised three thematic sessions.

Session I examined the significance of the Nexus approach across various sectors, incorporating insights from practitioners in the fields of bioeconomy, water management, energy, agriculture, and ecosystems.

Session II focused on the structuring of collaborative efforts related to the implementation of the Nexus framework, highlighting case studies and governance models from various regions in Europe.

Session III concentrated on the interface between research and policy, emphasizing the impact of interdisciplinary research on policy frameworks and practical outcomes.

This day-long exchange facilitated the sharing of experiences among practitioners and decision-makers, fostered the establishment of new partnerships, and provided insights into effective, integrated approaches that are consistent with the European Union’s Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Day 3: Management Meeting, Workshops, and Mentorship

The third day commenced with the 4th NexusNet Management Committee meeting, led by Professor Chrysi Laspidou and Dr. Floor Brouwer, during which strategic directions for the network were reviewed.

The workshop “Creating New Impact-Driven Opportunities featured:

– An overview of the iMERMAID Project Presented by Ms. Ellie Shtereva

– Research impact insights from Professor Mirela Sertić Perić

– Skills development and community building strategies led by Ms. Naomi Timmer.

In the afternoon, Professor Giannis Adamos, who serves as the Grant Holder Manager of NexusNet, conducted an Academia Brokerage Event aimed at fostering collaboration among academic institutions. The day concluded with parallel WG sessions and an optional guided tour of Split’s historic center, culminating in a cultural dinner at the Museum of Fine Arts.

Day 4: Field Trip – From History to Hydro-Innovation

The concluding day featured a full-day field trip, enabling participants to explore real-world examples of water resource management and heritage. The itinerary encompassed visits to the source of the River Jadro, Diocletian’s aqueduct, a hydrotechnical laboratory, a water treatment facility, and a hydropower station. Lunch was hosted at the picturesque Cetina River canyon, offering an ideal culmination to a profoundly enriching experience.

The Split 2023 multi-event served as a crucial platform for promoting cross-sectoral collaboration, demonstrating applied research, and enhancing NexusNet’s role as a catalyst for integrated, low-carbon development in Europe. Participants left the event inspired by newly established connections, insights gained, and a reinforced commitment to collective action.

NexusNet expresses its sincere gratitude to all speakers, facilitators, and attendees who contributed to this impactful gathering. The organization looks forward to leveraging this momentum in future events.

Agenda