FutureWater’s research and consultancy can be divided into eight fields. FutureWater has extensive experience in these fields, both in the Netherlands and internationally. In addition to research and consultancy for clients, FutureWater often takes the initiative to start and carry out scientific and applied research.


  • Climate Change

    We apply innovative methods and tools to provide advice on climate change and water resources. Having access to a wide range of climate data and experts allows us to develop a unique approach for each project. We are involved in several projects focused on the impact and adaptation to climate change, in collaboration with various clients and organisations.


  • River Basin Management

    We provide solutions for sustainable water management at the river basin level through stakeholder collaboration and the use of tools and simulation models. In doing so, we help assess water availability under changing conditions and optimize river basin planning and water allocation. In addition, we strive for integrated planning based on water-food-energy-ecosystem cohesion to promote sustainable management of water resources.


  • Water Productivity and Irrigation

    The challenge lies in meeting the food needs of a growing global population while reducing water consumption from irrigation. We integrate hydro-meteorological data, simulations, satellite observations and drone maps to support sustainable water management and water productivity in agriculture. We offer advice on different spatial scales to contribute to the SDG goals.


  • Water Scarcity and Drought

    Periods of drought threaten water and food security worldwide, especially in semi-arid and subtropical regions. We promote sustainable land and water use and improve water distribution strategies to stimulate adaptation. We provide climate risk and vulnerability assessments, advise on investments and develop decision support systems for fast and efficient data processing and results integration.


  • Capacity Building

    We have extensive experience in training people and organizations. We combine scientific knowledge with consultancy work in the field of hydrology, climate change, satellite data and drones. Our tailor-made training courses are aimed at making complex scientific concepts understandable for various audiences, and we encourage the use of open source software and data.


  • Hydropower

    We use a modern toolset and develop tools for sustainable hydropower projects. Among other things, we apply the glacio-hydrological model SPHY for the assessment of discharges and flood risks. In addition, we have experience in assessing sustainable land use, analyzing costs and benefits, and researching hydropower income (sharing) to support dialogue with stakeholders.


  • Mountain Hydrology

    We are world leaders in mountain hydrology and apply our expertise in research and consultancy. With our hydrological model SPHY we make forecasts about future water availability, we provide insight into changes in seasonal influences and water demand, and we provide extensive analyzes for the hydropower sector. We make the link between upstream and downstream areas to provide integrated advice on the water-food-energy nexus.


  • Ecosystem Services

    We take a comprehensive approach to valuing water-related ecosystem services, combining scenario assessment, simulation modeling and economic valuation. By integrating hydrological models, satellite data and return-on-investment analyses, we support investment plans for improved river basin management, with the aim of promoting healthier ecosystems and sustainable water management.