The (Western)Scheldt forms an international river basin and estuary. Despite EU and national legislation like the WFD it is heavily polluted with all kind of chemicals, like phosphates, nitrogen, (micro)plastics and PFAS. Should we opt for a rights-based approach to restore ecosystems and water quality? Or do we then still put ourselves on top of the pyramid of life and outside or above nature by allowing the (Western)Scheldt a place in our legal system?