Date: October 6–10, 2025

Venue: The University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain

Invitation: SedNet is the European network aimed at incorporating sediment issues and knowledge into European strategies to support the achievement of a good environmental status and to develop new tools for sediment management. Sediments fulfil fundamental functions as riverbeds, aquatic habitats, and play an integral role in the biogeochemical cycles of aquatic systems. Due to their quality and quantity, sediments have key functions for indispensable ecosystem services, including important human uses of water bodies. In line with the objectives of the European Water Framework Directive (WFD), Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), Mission Starfish 2030 (aiming to restore our oceans and waters), and the Green Deal (aiming for zero pollution), sediments must be healthy to help regenerate biodiversity, create good conditions for the provision of habitats and ecosystem services, and contribute to the good chemical and ecological status of water bodies. Water pollution causes sediments to function both as sinks and sources of pollutants. The remobilisation and transport of these polluted sediments can potentially negatively impact water quality and, consequently, the health of aquatic organisms. Additionally, activities such as mining and river regulation disrupt the natural sediment flow. To meet the objectives of European environmental policies, it is essential to achieve healthy sediments. We therefore need to define what constitutes healthy sediments and, thereafter, protect and, where needed, restore their health and balance. A strategy is needed to ensure the sustainable management and use of sediments. In summary, healthy sediments are key to supporting life, maintaining biodiversity, enriching soil, and sustaining ecosystems. But how can the health of sediments be defined? What indicators can be used for assessment? We are inviting abstracts for a series of sessions addressing various challenges and proposed solutions to the overall 2025 SedNet conference theme: “Healthy Sediments”.

Theme: Healthy Sediments.

6 thematic sessions:

1. Sediment Quality and Risk assessment

2. Sediment Flows

3. Nature Based Solutions and Beneficial Use

4. Sediment Literacy & Citizen Science

5. Data Collecting, Sharing and AI

6. Sediment Management Concepts and Policy

URL: https://sednet.org/events/sednet-conference-2025/

Contact:

Chayenne van Dijk

The SedNet Secretariat

Email: secretariat@sednet.org