From the 6th until the 10th of October 2025 the SedNet conference will take place in Madrid, Spain. At the conference, we invite abstracts for a series of sessions aiming to explore different challenges and proposed solutions related to the theme “Healthy Sediments”.

Healthy Sediments: What Are They and How Can They Be Achieved?

Sediments fulfil fundamental functions as riverbeds, aquatic habitats, and play an integral role in the biogeochemical cycles of aquatic systems. Due to their quality and quantity, sediments have key functions for indispensable ecosystem services, including important human uses of water bodies.

In line with the objectives of the European Water Framework Directive (WFD), Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), Mission Starfish 2030 (aiming to restore our oceans and waters), and the Green Deal (aiming for zero pollution), sediments must be healthy to help regenerate biodiversity, create good conditions for the provision of habitats and ecosystem services, and contribute to the good chemical and ecological status of water bodies. Water pollution causes sediments to function both as sinks and sources of pollutants. The remobilisation and transport of these polluted sediments can potentially negatively impact water quality and, consequently, the health of aquatic organisms. Additionally, activities such as mining and river regulation disrupt the natural sediment flow. To meet the objectives of European environmental policies, it is essential to achieve healthy sediments. We therefore need to define what constitutes healthy sediments and, thereafter, protect and, where needed, restore their health and balance. A strategy is needed to ensure the sustainable management and use of sediments.

In summary, healthy sediments are key to supporting life, maintaining biodiversity, enriching soil, and sustaining ecosystems. But how can the health of sediments be defined? What indicators can be used for assessment? We are inviting abstracts for a series of sessions addressing various challenges and proposed solutions to the overall 2025 SedNet conference theme: “Healthy Sediments”.

We tentatively propose six thematic sessions for the conference:

1. Zero Pollution

2. Sediment Flows

3. Nature Based Solutions

4. Sediment Literacy & Citizen Science

5. Data Collecting, Sharing and AI

6. Sediment Management Concepts and Policy