Improving MEDiterranean irrigation and Water supply for smallholder farmers by providing Efficient, low-cost, and nature-based Technologies and practices MED-WET
The University of Beira Interior (UBI) is involved in the European Med-Wet project, aimed at improving irrigation efficiency in the Mediterranean region due to extreme drought caused by climate change. The three-year project, involving eight entities from five countries, focuses on introducing innovative and efficient irrigation systems for small farmers.
In partnership with the municipality of Fundão, UBI will be responsible for pilot testing the technologies at Quinta do Seminário. The aim is to use scarce water resources in an efficient and environmentally sustainable way, guaranteeing a long-term supply of water and food.
The project coordinator at UBI highlights the importance of Med-Wet in combating the negative impacts of climate change on water availability, agriculture and food security.
At UBI, the project is coordinated by João Leitão, with the participation of Dina Pereira, Pedro Dinis Gaspar, Cristina Fael, Isabel Falorca and Vítor Moutinho. The Innovation and Technologies for Sustainability Laboratory (LITecS) is responsible for remote monitoring and technical maintenance.
The funding comes from Horizon 2020, Transnational Cooperation – Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Region.