While AquaConSoil is best known for its scientific innovation and cross-disciplinary exchange, few see the complex logistics, dedicated teamwork, and evolving strategy that make this international conference possible. For the past 40 years, a committed group of organizers—mainly from Deltares and its predecessor TNO—have quietly ensured that every edition of AquaConSoil runs smoothly, adapts to the times, and continues to deliver impact.
As we celebrate the 40-year anniversary of AquaConSoil, we also take a moment to recognize the work behind the scenes—the people, the challenges, and the evolution of the conference itself.
From ConSoil to AquaConSoil
The first ConSoil was organized in 1985 in Utrecht, a collaboration between TNO in the Netherlands and FZK in Germany. From there, the event travelled across Europe—Berlin, Edinburgh, Bordeaux, Milano, Barcelona—each time shaped by local environmental priorities and policy shifts.
In 2013, the conference was rebranded as AquaConSoil to reflect a broader, more integrated focus on soil, water, and sediment systems. Since 2015, Deltares has taken full responsibility for organizing the event, maintaining its scientific integrity while modernizing its format.
Evolving with the Times
Organizing a large international event isn’t without challenges. From balancing budgets and venue logistics to reacting to emergencies (like France's state of emergency in 2017) or pivoting online during the 2021 COVID edition, the organizing team has had to be both adaptable and resilient.
“What makes AquaConSoil unique is not just the content, but the commitment behind it,” says Sophie Moinier, who led the organization from 2017 and now heads the Subsurface and Water Quality department at Deltares. “Everyone remembers their first AquaConSoil—it’s where lifelong collaborations begin.”
Over the years, the team also launched a digital transformation: a new website, logo, and visual identity, all while adjusting to new rules like GDPR and shifting expectations for sustainability and inclusivity.
Collaboration at every level
Each edition is the result of intense collaboration, not just within Deltares, but with local hosts, researchers, municipalities, and policy leaders. These partnerships help bring local relevance to global challenges, ensuring that each AquaConSoil is more than a conference: it’s a curated experience rooted in shared goals.
One consistent theme through all editions has been the importance of community. From returning participants and keynote speakers to first-time attendees and student presenters, AquaConSoil thrives because of the people who keep coming back and the new voices it welcomes each edition.
Looking ahead
As the environmental challenges facing soil and water systems grow more complex, so does the task of organizing an event that stays ahead of them. The future of AquaConSoil will rely on blending experience with fresh perspectives, strengthening its digital strategy, and continuing to engage younger generations of scientists and practitioners.
After 40 years, one thing remains clear: the dedication behind the scenes is just as impactful as what happens on stage.
