Climate and global change (CC and GC) risk human health, food security and biodiversity. To protect these essential areas, urgent action is needed to meet the 2030 zero pollution goals. MAR2PROTECT project offers a comprehensive solution to prevent groundwater (GW) contamination through a new-generation managed aquifer recharge (MAR). At the heart of this solution is a Decision Support System powered by Artificial Intelligence (M-AI-R DSS) that uses real-time monitoring placed in risk locations. This digital tool will monitor groundwater quality and detect threats caused by climate change and other environmental and human factors. Besides, the system will integrate input from innovative technologies, community feedback, and risk assessments to make better decisions about water protection.
The core of the MAR2PROTECT is this M-AI-R DSS, which combines technological solutions and social input, improving groundwater quality and quantity. To ensure it can be widely applied, the project is collecting data from seven demonstration sites across different climates, water sources, and pollution levels. Using this all-encompassing approach, MAR2PROTECT aims to significantly improve groundwater protection across Europe and beyond.
Community involvement is a key part of the MAR2PROTECT, working closely with citizens, policymakers, and experts to ensure strong action to protect groundwater. This collaboration also helps strengthen European policies on groundwater protection.
The project involves 11 partners, including universities, research organizations, and industry leaders from several European countries, as well as South Africa and Tunisia. Additionally, it benefits from collaboration with large water utilities and policymakers, which helps increase the project's overall impact.
