Background The ecosystem approach (EA) is a methodology that aids decision-making. It helps integrate economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainability – i.e. sustainable use of natural resources, equitable sharing of the benefits derived from the use of natural resources and conservation of those resources. Guidance on the practical application of EA, however, is lacking. There is a need for demonstration projects that have the ecosystem approach at their core from the outset. The principles of EA can be related directly to the requirements of the Water Framework Directive so that projects structured around EA can also help meet the terms of the directive. Objectives The project aimed to demonstrate that the sustainability of water resource management in southeast England can be improved by applying the 12 EA principles into catchment area management plans. The project was to be applied in three catchments areas: the Darent, the Kennet and the Kentish Stour. In each of these catchments four themes would be tackled: diffuse pollution, sustainable drainage (SUDS), sustainable use and quality of life. These themes are at the core of sustainable water resource issues for catchments throughout Europe. Results The SuRCaSE project worked with a wide range of stakeholders to improve the management of the limited water resources in the region. The initial plan to engage directly with landowners, businesses and developers, however, was not as successful as had been hoped, and the project changed its approach. Rather than try and include SUDS in developments, the project realised that there was a lack of awareness of best practice in this area among local authorities and developers. So a guidance booklet was produced that allowed practitioners without a background in hydrology to understand the basic premise of the techniques. This booklet was well received and widely distributed in the catchment areas. Businesses were reluctant to allow the project’s advisers access to their premises to undertake water use audits, in case they would be criticised or even fined if malpractice was discovered. To address this concern, the project created a water efficiency website, where businesses could carry out their own audits to help them find ways in which they can save water. By implementing the suggested water saving practices, businesses are able, not only help to conserve water, but could also save up to 40% on their bill. As a result, instead of the intended 130 businesses being audited, more than 1 400 businesses used the website to gather information on water efficiency techniques and technology. The project was therefore able to demonstrate that EA can be adapted to changing circumstances. The project has produced a number of case studies and best practice documents that should allow other regions to follow the same methodology. It is hoped that the partnerships and alliances formed during this project will continue. In fact, project partners have sought co-operation with French organisations that will test the same EA at an international level. Further information on the project can be found in the project's layman report (see "Read more" section).