Dr. Maroš Nikolaj, PhD. is the founder and chairman of the Slovak cluster Envirocentrum, also known as WaterSlovakia. He is an expert in innovation and environmental strategies, with over 30 years of experience in water management, hydrology, flood protection, risk analysis, and disaster recovery management. He is an experienced analyst and consultant who participates in an international context in the design and development of solutions and projects that help, in particular, governmental and regional institutions adapt to climate change, protect water resources, reduce environmental risks, and ensure sustainable development. He lectures at several universities and is the author and co-author of scientific publications.