Presenting Climate-Adaptive Water Reuse at CIGR EurAgEng Conference in Torino

Daniel Padrino, a researcher representing Teagasc and the UNIVERSEWATER project, presented pioneering research at the CIGR EurAgEng Conference 2026, held from June 24–26 in Torino. Speaking in the “Sustainable Resource Recovery and Water Reuse” session, Padrino shared insights into the modeling of nature-based solutions designed to tackle one of Ireland’s most pressing agricultural challenges: the management of Dairy Soiled Water (DSW).

Dairy Soiled Water is a significant byproduct of dairy farming. While it is often used as a fertilizer, its current management poses environmental risks and storage difficulties. Padrino’s research explores the use of Free Water Surface (FWS) constructed wetlands as a low-cost, nature-based solution. By treating DSW through these systems, farmers can safely reuse the water for cleaning operations, significantly reducing the demand for freshwater.

A standout feature of the research presented in Torino was its focus on climate adaptation. Rather than relying on a single use-case, the study simulated a three-cell constructed wetland across five different regions in Ireland using ten years of historical climate data. Crucially, the system was tested against future climate scenarios of +2°C and +4°C, based on Ireland’s national projections. This provides the agricultural sector with essential data on whether these treatment systems will remain compliant and effective as the climate becomes warmer and dryer.

Padrino also highlighted the potential for a “circular economy” loop: by reducing effluent concentration before it reaches the wetlands, a nutrient-rich sludge is generated. This byproduct can serve as a safer, more controlled fertilizer for farmers compared to raw DSW application.

Bringing a unique Irish perspective to the international audience in Torino, the presentation underscored the importance of water resilience in agriculture. As Ireland faces increasing water shortages and prolonged periods of low rainfall, the ability to recover and reuse water on-farm is becoming a vital component of the EU’s updated wastewater and water-reuse policy direction.