WATERAGRI advanced scientific and practical solutions for on-farm water and nutrient retention by exploring nature-based methods (farm-constructed wetlands, controlled drainage, bio-inspired filters) and developing digital decision-support tools. A cloud-based system integrated field data and remote sensing to offer near-real-time insights, enabling stakeholders to customise retention practices under diverse conditions.
European case studies demonstrated how optimised irrigation scheduling, subsurface irrigation, and nutrient recycling can reduce water scarcity and improve yields. Small-scale retention measures were effective across varied climates, and a comprehensive sustainability framework facilitated the assessment of cost-effectiveness and environmental impacts.
Stakeholder engagement was vital throughout. WP1 hosted workshops for project introductions, feedback collection, and an 18-month gender distribution analysis, while also launching the serious game AgriLemma. WP2 created farm-scale tools—such as geodatabases, FMIS, and remote sensing workflows—supported by soil organic matter data. WP3 refined water retention solutions through near real-time, physically based hydrological modelling. WP4 expanded nutrient retention methods by developing bio-inspired filters, chemically modified nanocellulose membranes, and a microfluidic nutrient recovery prototype, alongside studies on wetland biomass composting.
WATERAGRI’s solutions were tested at ten European sites (WP5), with WP6 systematically evaluating their performance. WP7 integrated these technologies into a framework that supports real-time water management decisions and clearer cost–benefit insights. WP8 led communication and dissemination, producing policy briefs, a massive open online course, and targeted events for policymakers and broader audiences. Finally, WP9 coordinated the overall project, organised General Assembly meetings, and hosted a final conference featuring dedicated sessions for farmers, policymakers, researchers, and the general public.
These achievements confirmed that combining water retention and nutrient recovery can bolster Europe’s long-term food security. Throughout the project, multi-actor engagement ensured that innovations were practical, evidence-based, and ready for adoption. Building on WATERAGRI’s experiences, the new FARMWISE project under Horizon Europe integrates artificial intelligence tools to further strengthen agricultural water management and sustainability across Europe.
