Across the river systems of Europe and the Americas, an invasive species no larger than a fingernail is causing multimillion-euro losses, irreversible ecological shifts, and mounting pressure on critical water infrastructure. Dreissena polymorpha, commonly known as the zebra mussel, multiplies explosively—clogging pipes, collapsing cooling systems, and outcompeting native species within months. In Spain alone, annual control costs exceed €25 million, affecting more than 11 river basins. This is not merely a biological invasion; it is a symptom of a water management system lacking preventive tools, integrated governance, and systemic response.
In response to this crisis, the project proposes a fundamental transformation in how aquatic invasive species are tackled: integrated basin-level management, digital traceability, cross-sector governance, and the deployment of combined technologies for early detection, biosecurity, and controlled remediation. The goal is not only to contain the zebra mussel—but to shift the paradigm for responding to silent threats that can paralyze entire sectors. Implemented in the Ebro River Basin—one of the most severely affected areas—this project turns threat into opportunity: every protected asset, every meter of cleared network, every trained user represents a direct investment in hydrological resilience and ecosystem health.
The project’s purpose is undeniable: it is no longer a question of whether the zebra mussel will reach a basin, but how prepared we are when it does. This Water Positive approach is rooted in the principles of additionality (actions that go beyond standard operations), traceability (continuous digital and physical monitoring), and intentionality (alignment with water and ecosystem improvement goals). The initiative brings together basin authorities, water operators, technology developers, and academic institutions under a framework designed for auditability and replication. In a world where invasive species are the fifth leading cause of biodiversity loss, this solution does more than reduce damage—it redefines how we actively protect our water future.
This groundbreaking initiative is deployed across critical hydraulic infrastructures in the Ebro River Basin, combining physical-chemical treatments (chlorination, ozonation, mesh filtration), continuous monitoring tools (bioassays, biomass sensors, underwater inspections), and adaptive operational protocols. Its mission is to prevent, contain, and mitigate the spread of zebra mussels in water intakes, pumping stations, drinking water plants, and irrigation networks—safeguarding the volume of water captured, treated, and delivered in one of Spain’s most water-demanding regions.
The transformed volume is measured not just in treated liters, but in preserved infrastructures, unclogged pipeline segments, and outbreaks avoided. Each intervention brings immediate benefits: avoiding service interruptions, reducing harsh chemical usage for cleaning, minimizing system failure risks, and protecting downstream ecosystems from further invasion. In parallel, by maintaining efficiency in treatment and pumping stations, energy use per cubic meter is reduced, generating cross-cutting sustainability gains.
The model is led by an inter-institutional consortium including the Ebro River Basin Authority, regional water operators, the University of Zaragoza, and Aqua Positive, which structures the initiative under the VWBA-WQBA methodology. This collaboration enables verified impact, the generation of water benefit credits, and scalability to other high-pressure basins like the Júcar, Segura, and Duero.
Acting now is critical: the spread of zebra mussels is accelerating with rising temperatures, artificial connectivity between reservoirs, and a lack of effective controls on boats and mobile equipment. Companies with intensive water operations—across industry, energy, and agri-food sectors—that invest in this model are not only protecting their assets but positioning themselves as leaders in watershed conservation. They gain visibility in ESG programs, reduce regulatory risk, and align their brand with high-value environmental solutions. This project is not a crisis response—it is the beginning of a proactive, intelligent, and replicable defense of the most strategic resource of the 21st century.
The project combines zebra mussel eradication in critical infrastructure with prevention strategies to minimize new infestations through advanced monitoring and control technologies.
1. Reducing Zebra Mussel Populations Through Targeted Removal
To control existing zebra mussel populations, filtration and mechanical extraction systems will be installed at key points in the hydraulic network. These measures will physically remove mussels before they cause significant blockages. Additionally, eco-friendly biocides will be applied selectively, ensuring the elimination of larvae and adult mussels while minimizing impact on aquatic ecosystems.
2. Strengthening Monitoring and Early Detection
A proactive monitoring system will be deployed to detect infestations before they spread. Water quality sensors in reservoirs and pipelines will enable early detection of larvae, while remote sensing and satellite monitoring will help map affected areas. This data-driven approach will allow for quick and effective interventions, reducing the long-term impact of zebra mussels.
3. Preventing Future Infestations Through Regulation and Awareness
To prevent the spread of zebra mussel larvae to new areas, ballast water treatment regulations for boats will be strengthened. Additionally, an education and awareness campaign will inform local communities, boat operators, and industries about best practices to limit unintentional mussel transport.
By integrating removal, monitoring, and prevention, this project offers a sustainable and science-based approach to controlling zebra mussel infestations and protecting water infrastructure.
SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: Improves access to clean water by reducing infrastructure obstructions and removing contaminants caused by zebra mussels.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Optimizes hydraulic infrastructure, reducing operational costs and promoting the use of innovative technologies for monitoring and controlling zebra mussels.
SDG 14 – Life Below Water: Contributes to restoring ecological balance in aquatic ecosystems affected by invasive species.
SDG 15 – Life on Land: Helps conserve ecosystems dependent on water sources affected by zebra mussel proliferation.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Encourages collaboration between government agencies, businesses, research centers, and local communities.
The execution of this project follows a structured approach to ensure effective and sustainable intervention in controlling the zebra mussel. Each phase is designed to minimize the spread of this invasive species and mitigate its impact on aquatic ecosystems and hydraulic infrastructure.
1. Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
Before implementing any control measures, it is essential to understand the extent of the problem and identify critical areas of infestation.
2. Implementation of Control Measures
Once priority areas are identified, various strategies are executed to reduce the zebra mussel population and prevent further spread.
3. Monitoring and Early Detection
Continuous tracking is key to ensuring the project’s success and preventing future reinfestations.
4. Infrastructure Rehabilitation and Optimization
To ensure the project’s long-term sustainability, improvements are made to the affected hydraulic systems.
The control of the zebra mussel in the Ebro River Basin is a fundamental step in ensuring the availability and quality of water in the region. The combination of corrective actions and prevention strategies will significantly reduce the impact of this invasive species, benefiting both aquatic ecosystems and hydraulic infrastructure.
This comprehensive approach will ensure a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient management of water resources, allowing the Ebro River Basin to remain a vital water supply source for future generations.
