Ecological effects quickly and clearly visible
The D-Eco Impact Tool is an open-source software tool that helps to map ecological effects in projects such as dike improvements, area developments and infrastructure projects. Developed by DigiShape partner Deltares, this tool supports decision-makers by making ecological impact measurable and comparable. By analysing biodiversity, water quality and soil in an integrated way, D-Eco Impact contributes to more sustainable and well-founded policy.
What does the tool do?
The D-Eco Impact Tool offers a reproducible and transferable method to calculate ecological impact. The tool translates complex ecological data into concrete figures and visual models, allowing both ecologists and technicians to collaborate effectively. This makes it possible to compare scenarios and make better choices for a resilient ecosystem.
Applications and collaborations
The tool is already being used in various national and international projects, including:
- REST-COAST: used in the recovery of a species of seagrass in Foros Bay (Black Sea).
- EDITO-Model Lab: – possible integration into a Digital Twin for oceans.
- REACT-Tool: calculation of ecological effects on biodiversity and habitats within river basins.
- Virtual Climate Lab on TerSchelling: analysis of groundwater influence on dunes, agriculture and breeding birds.
- Reintroduction of the European sturgeon: collaboration with Wageningen University and Sportvisserij Nederland.
Tool availability
D-Eco Impact is open source and available via GitHub.
The software is currently still in the internal Beta test phase, which means that Deltares is happy to be involved in the deployment of the software to ensure that the analysis runs smoothly and that possible errors or limitations of the software can be solved simultaneously. Training for the software is also still project-specific.
Deltares invites partners and users to contribute to further development and knowledge sharing. If you have used the tool, please share your knowledge so that others can build on it.
More information and contact
For questions or collaboration, more information can be found on the Deltares product page.
Contact: M.P. (Marc) Weeber, Product Owner Water Quality & Ecological Software, Deltares