Chosen among a record number of 266 applications from across Europe, NAWAMED was recognised under the “Green Europe” category for its innovative work in sustainable water management and its contribution to advancing cross-border cooperation in the Mediterranean.
We are proud to announce that NAWAMED, a project funded under the ENI CBC Med Programme (the predecessor of the Interreg NEXT MED Programme), has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 REGIOSTARS Awards, the European Commission’s annual competition that highlights the most impactful and inclusive EU-funded regional development projects.
Chosen among a record number of 266 applications from across Europe, NAWAMED was recognised under the “Green Europe” category for its innovative work in sustainable water management and its contribution to advancing cross-border cooperation in the Mediterranean.
More specifically, NAWAMED (“Nature Based Solutions for Domestic Water Reuse in Mediterranean Countries”) implemented nature-based solutions in community facilities, including schools and universities in Itay, Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, and Malta to turn buildings into water “producers” rather than mere “consumers”.
Thanks to the deployment of green walls and façades, NAWAMED has demonstrated the huge potential of nature-based solutions for treating and reusing grey water, a crucial issue amid rapidly increasing water scarcity across the Mediterranean region. These installations not only enhance building aesthetics and contribute to biodiversity but also engage decision-makers, professionals, and youth in building a sustainable future.
The short film “Gocce di Rugiada” (“Drops of Drew”), awarded in different international film festivals, captures the project journey, inspiring viewers by nurturing their eyes, minds, and souls through cinematic storytelling.
Support the project in the next step of the competition
NAWAMED and the other finalists in the REGIOSTARS Awards will pitch their projects in front of a jury on 14 October in Brussels during the 23rd European Week of Regions and Cities. In addition, the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite project in the Public Choice Award. The vote will begin 2 September and closes on 15 October at midday on this page.
The winners in each category, as well as the recipient of the Public Choice Award, will be announced at an award ceremony on 15 October, marking the conclusion of the European Week of Regions and Cities.
We look forward to the next stage of the competition and invite you to support the project in the upcoming public vote.
About REGIOSTARS: Celebrating Excellence in EU-Funded Projects in Regions
Since 2008, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO) has organised the REGIOSTARS Awards every year. These awards have become Europe’s label of excellence for EU-funded projects that demonstrate the impact and inclusiveness of regional development. By addressing common challenges and seizing opportunities, REGIOSTARS inspire regions to create impactful and inclusive projects that benefit people and communities.
The REGIOSTARS Awards focus on five key areas, each representing a priority for the EU’s regional policy:
1: A COMPETITIVE AND SMART EUROPE
Promoting competitiveness, innovation and economic resilience
2: A GREEN EUROPE
The green transition as the enabler of regional development
3: A CONNECTED EUROPE
Enhancing mobility and connectivity between regions
4: A SOCIAL AND INCLUSIVE EUROPE
Achieving a more inclusive Europe by harnessing regional talents
5: A EUROPE CLOSER TO THE CITIZENS
Fostering the sustainable development of all types of territories
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