01: Aquaponic pilot farm
A multitrophic RAS aquaponic farm integrated within the wastewater treatment plant of Castellana Grotte (IT), using reclaimed wastewater as influent. The system includes a small-scale experimental setup hosted in a geodesic dome and a larger-scale configuration in a greenhouse, enabling controlled testing and scale-up assessment. The following KEY results are in preparation:
KER1.1 – Infrastructure: Geodesic dome, greenhouse and photovoltaic panels owned by AQUA, licensed for operation of the facility
KER1.2 – Aquaponic system: Integrated fish tanks, hydroponic plant beds and biofiltration units
KER1.3 – IoT system: Sensors and automation for real-time monitoring and control
KER1.4 – Data: Scripts and processes for secure storage and handling of monitoring data, including blockchain-based solutions
02: Advanced tertiary treatment
An integrated treatment train based on ozonation, vacuum UV and reactive storage, operated at the field site to remove contaminants of emerging concern and trace pollutants from reclaimed water prior to its use in aquaponics.
03: Advanced biofilters
An optimised biofilter enabling aerobic conversion of solid fish waste into assimilable fertilisers, targeting high nutrient recovery and minimisation of water losses.
04: Microbiome characterisation data
Characterisation of microbial communities supporting biological mineralisation, with potential application in the design and optimisation of industrial and environmental bioreactors.
05: Capacity building and educational material
Educational and training material designed to outlive the project, including recorded webinars, workshops and a virtual tour of the pilot facility. The pilot plant itself serves as a long-term demonstrator for sustainable food production and resource circularity.
06: New value chain (case study)
A consolidated case study combining technical solutions, regulatory analysis, SSH research and business modelling, supporting replication of reclaimed-water aquaponics in other European contexts.
IMPACTS (indicative)
Scientific impact:
First European case study of an aquaponic system integrated within a wastewater treatment plant
Open Access scientific outputs and protocols disseminated
Training and involvement of early-stage researchers and professionals
Technological impact:
Filing of a provisional patent application
Development of advanced biofiltration solutions with industrial relevance
Social and policy impact:
Structured dialogue with Italian ministries of Agriculture, Health and Environment, highlighting reclaimed-water aquaculture as a novel and policy-relevant concept
