Nature-Based Groundwater Recharge in Focus at ELTE Sustainability Forum
On 27 May 2025, the historic Aula Magna of Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) hosted the event “Higher Education Innovations for Sustainability”, bringing together leading Hungarian universities to present research and innovation projects addressing environmental and societal challenges.
Among the featured speakers was Judit Mádl-Szőnyi, who introduced the NaBa-MAR (Nature-Based Managed Aquifer Recharge) concept in her talk titled:
“Harnessing Subsurface Water Systems for Nature-Based Retention: The NaBa-MAR Concept”
NaBa-MAR offers a landscape-scale, nature-based approach to water management by integrating surface and subsurface water retention. It aims to recharge aquifers using excess water from rainfall, floods, or treated wastewater—storing it underground for future ecological or economic use. Rather than relying on engineered infrastructure, the method builds on natural flow systems and geological conditions.
As part of the research, a physical demonstration model was developed to visualize the concept in action. This educational tool helps illustrate the spatial dynamics of groundwater recharge and is complemented by ongoing numerical modeling, which supports scientific validation and practical implementation.
Why this matters for ClimEx-PE?
The presentation provided an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of nature-based groundwater solutions — a core focus of the ClimEx-PE project. NaBa-MAR aligns with ClimEx-PE’s mission to promote climate-resilient water management strategies and supports knowledge transfer between academia, municipalities, and stakeholders. The event also helped strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and public engagement — key pillars of the project.
What makes NaBa-MAR innovative?
- Cost-effective and environmentally friendly
- Designed for long-term sustainability
- Multifunctional: supports water management, conservation, and social well-being
- Grounded in science
- Applicable in urban, agricultural, and ecological settings
Who can benefit?
- Municipalities seeking sustainable green space irrigation
- Farmers needing reliable water during droughts
- Companies aiming to meet ESG goals through measurable water projects
- Conservation groups restoring wetlands and aquatic habitats