In December 2008, within the frame of the EWP programme “Aquawareness” and based on the Water Vision for Europe, the EWP Stewardship programme has been launched with a strategic workshop of stakeholders from various parts and parties of the water sector. The aim of this project is to provide a tool to communicate and award responsible water users through the development of a common framework for assessing, implementing and communicating Sustainable Water Management (SWM).

Due to the high motivation and pro-active engagement of the project participants, this Stewardship initiative quickly found its recognition within the European water sector and within the global Water Stewardship process where it represents the “Regional Water Stewardship Initiative for Europe”.