Watermills as Cultural-Natural Ecosystems: Tangible and Intangible Heritage for Sustainable Water and Energy Management in a Changing Climate

Historic watermills, such as those found at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kinderdijk-Elshout, are not just remnants of past technologies but dynamic socio-ecological systems that integrate hydrology, craftsmanship, landscape processes, and community knowledge. These mills play crucial ecological roles by regulating water flow, managing sediment, supporting biodiversity, and generating low-impact energy, serving as models for modern nature-based solutions. Recent research demonstrates that active or revived milling practices enhance landscape resilience, while abandoned mills deteriorate rapidly under climate stress, exacerbating environmental risks. This study highlights the potential of watermills to contribute to sustainable water and energy management in a changing climate, bridging tangible and intangible heritage for long-term ecological and social benefits.

Grano, M. C. (2026). Watermills as Cultural-Natural Ecosystems: Tangible and Intangible Heritage for Sustainable Water and Energy Management in a Changing Climate. Blue Papers, 4(2). https://doi.org/10.58981/bluepapers.2025.2.11