JDS5 brings together over 1,000 experts from more than 100 scientific institutions, all working to understand how “healthy” the Danube really is and what we can do to protect it for future generations. State-of-the-art methods are used – from environmental DNA analysis and the detection of microplastics to the identification of thousands of substances that could affect water quality.

At the official launch, Austrian Federal Minister Norbert Totschnig said:

“Protecting the Danube is our shared responsibility. This river is not only a source of life, but also a symbol of cooperation between nations.”

Students and citizens – you are part of the team!

JDS5 is not just a closed scientific mission – it is an open journey that welcomes everyone, including schools, local communities and curious people of all ages! In partnership with the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, JDS5 offers an innovative citizen science programme that invites people to get involved in sampling and exploring their local waterways.

Birgit Vogel, Executive Secretary of the ICPDR, reported:

“JDS5 is more than just a scientific expedition – it is a call for unity. We invite everyone to ‘zoom into the Danube’, take a look beneath the surface and discover the stories that this mighty river brings with it.”

Why is this important?

The Danube is the most international river basin in the world, connecting over 80 million people – and it literally knows no borders. The data collected during JDS5 will form the backbone of the next Danube River Basin Management Plan for 2027 – an important roadmap for shaping future water protection policy across Europe.

Lidija Globevnik, President of the ICPDR, added:

“The JDS5 shows what we can achieve when we work together across borders. Together we build knowledge, shape sustainable policies and raise public awareness – because a river like the Danube deserves the care of an entire continent.”

Want to find out more?

This is the fifth JDS mission (after the 2001, 2007, 2013 and 2019 missions). It is about detecting pollutants and new contaminants and bringing science closer to people through education and hands-on engagement.

You can find out more about JDS5 and how you can get involved on the ICPDR website: www.icpdr.org

Join in, get involved and let’s keep the Danube flowing – clean, healthy and full of life!