The current project proposal aims at rebuilding or restoring the experimental bioplatos (and if necessary at constructing new ones). The main objective is to come to ecologically sound, effective water purifications (for waste as well as for drinking water). The programme will capitalize on research achievements, techniques and expertise obtained in the Ukraine in the past as well as in other regions. In this respect, studies conducted in Estonia (at the University of Tartu) on the use of a large variety of constructed wetlands for waste water purification are of special interest. The problems which are encountered in Estonia in connection with water pollutions, particularly the release of toxic compounds by industries, are very similar to those in the Ukraine. The ecological engineering techniques practiced in Estonia include various types of bioplatos. However, lack of funds is also a serious constraint on research in Estonia. Additional support for the proposed research programme will be provided by Finnish institutions (VTT Communities and Infrastructure and the West Finland Regional Environment Centre). This will concern the effect of bioplatos on the nutrient level in the water and the development of mathematical models to forecast hydrological and ecological processes in waterbodies where these ecological engineering techniques are practiced. Furthermore, assistance will be provided by the University of Uppsala (in cooperation with the Uppsala Environmental Protection Office) in Sweden regarding water quality research with emphasis on toxic substances, and the Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) in the Netherlands in connection with aquatic plant management and information systems. Exchange of material and information between all partners will also be fostered by regular scientific contacts and meetings. In addition, training workshops will be held for staff of the CEC/NIS partner institutes. Project management will be by the KIT in the Netherlands, an institute which has successfully coordinated several EU funded projects.