Connect Healthy Rivers Haarlem & Mutare Collaborating on Increased Water Awareness
General information
Project name: Connect Healthy Rivers Haarlem & Mutare Samenwerken aan vergroot Waterbewustzijn
Country: The Netherlands
Timeline: From 16 February 2026 to 18 April 2027
Lead Organisation: Stichting Stedenband Haarlem-Mutare
Co-applicant: Stichting Technotrend
Summary of Action
Rivers in Haarlem in the Netherlands and Mutare in Zimbabwe face increasing ecological pressure from pollution, pesticides, PFAS, drought, flooding, and biodiversity loss. Although many young people want to help protect their rivers, they often lack guidance, practical tools, and opportunities for meaningful action. Schools also need accessible materials and partners to strengthen water-related education. This project responds by creating an international learning and action programme linking students, teachers, and communities.
Connect Healthy Rivers aims to build global water awareness and empower young people to take informed, sustainable action. Connecting schools with community partners in both cities, the project expands knowledge, stimulates exchange, and supports hands-on involvement in river restoration and water stewardship.
Expected results include participation of 1,000 students, training for 60 teachers, and engagement of 10 partner schools. Activities include citizen-science water monitoring, cleanup events, debates, exhibitions, and cooperation with local authorities. Students develop critical thinking, empathy, and ownership, supported by the Inner Development Goals and the Aqua Heroes educational game.
Three activity rounds align with national and international cleanup days. Secondary students research rivers, use Aqua Heroes, organise cleanups, and share findings, while primary students follow a four-lesson Technotrend programme that ends with a self-designed action.
Sustainable Development Goals
This project supports the following SDGs.
| SDG Number | SDG Title |
|---|---|
| SDG 3 | Good Health and Well-being |
| SDG 4 | Quality Education |
| SDG 6 | Clean Water and Sanitation |
| SDG 11 | Sustainable Cities and Communities |
| SDG 13 | Climate Action |
| SDG 14 | Life Below Water |
| SDG 15 | Life on Land |
| SDG 17 | Partnerships for the Goals |
Budget of project
€ 39.831,00
Contact
You can find the lead organisation on the following platforms: