The research focuses on optimising ecosystem functions of water systems. This is based on quantitatively studying the impact of water use (e.g. drinking water abstraction, recreation, irrigation, agriculture, aquaculture, ...), and investigating how and which functions can be combined in the most balanced/optimal way. This is linked to recent hypes around ecosystem services, natural capital and blue growth. The focus is on innovation of monitoring, assessment, modelling and management (protection and restoration), with the Sustainability Development Goals as key context.