The project

At a glance

UNIVERSWATER is an EU-funded project addressing water quality and quantity challenges caused by agricultural activities, such as overuse of natural water resources and pollution from runoff (e.g., nutrients and pesticides). These issues are further exacerbated by climate change effects.
To tackle these complex challenges in agricultural water management, the project will use a “system of systems” approach by integrating and optimising various technologies.

Key Impacts of the UNIVERSWATER Project

Improved water reclamation and reuse

Improved water reclamation and reuse methods will reduce pollution, safeguard freshwater sources, and ensure compliance with EU water standards.

Optimised use of water, pesticides, and fertilisers

Optimised use of water, pesticides, and fertilisers will promote eco-friendly farming, reduce environmental harm, and enhance biodiversity.

Advanced monitoring and decision-making tools

Advanced monitoring and decision-making tools will help farmers adapt to climate change impacts and ensure efficient water use.

Advanced monitoring and decision-making tools

Effective removal of contaminants and pollutants will reduce risks to human health and protect aquatic ecosystems.

What are our goals?

  • Create a knowledge base on agri-water management, collaborating with over 10 international projects, and engaging with stakeholders and policymakers.
  • Develop new sensors for detecting water and soil contaminants (e.g., E. coli in under 1 hour) and validate these across three sites.
  • Combine satellite imagery and sensor data to create AI-based decision tools, optimising water use and pollution control for three demo sites.
  • Develop treatments to remove up to 95% of contaminants and reduce groundwater withdrawals by 50%, ensuring safe water reuse for irrigation and other purposes.
  • Create a modular DSS that improves response times by under 10 minutes, enhances reliability by 90%, and reduces costs by at least 15%.
  • Engage over 100 citizens through workshops and activities to encourage sustainable water use and reduce pollution.
UNIVERSWATER at a glance

How will Universwater operate?

  • Develop Advanced Sensors: Create portable, on-site sensors for detecting water and soil contaminants (e.g., E. coli, pH, nitrates, pesticides).

  • Utilize Earth Observation and AI: Integrate satellite imagery and AI algorithms for real-time monitoring and decision support.

  • Implement Nature and Technology-Based Remediation: Combine natural and technological solutions for effective water treatment and pollutant removal.

  • Iterative Development Process: Use an incremental approach to develop, test, and improve technologies, ensuring early feedback and optimisation.

  • Build a Modular Decision Support System (DSS): Create a universal, adaptable DSS to guide sustainable water management practices across various settings.