The AGROBOX project aims to solve the problem of point source pollution deriving from the discharge of water polluted by agrochemicals following phytoiatric applications in agricultural, including the washing of tractors and sprayers.

The problem of point source pollution today is really felt both for the sector operators (farmers and public authorities) and for the final consumer.

AGROBOX system, during these two years, developed an innovative equipment capable of sustainably managing the wastewater derived from phytoiatric applications contaminated with agrochemicals, through innovative high efficiency filtration processes.

This system avoids the spillage of polluted waters and therefore the pollution of agricultural soils and surface waters, but especially the reuse of filtered water for subsequent applications.

The system helps farms also in economical way, saving and reusing filtered water.

To verify the AGROBOX’s efficacy, in 2020, it was necessary to take some experiments across farms located in North of Italy. Tests showed that the prototype reduces:

Considering the studies carried out, analysing the wastewater and the water at the end of the process, it has been found that the Agrobox system enables the reduction of dissolved pollutants in the washing water. The fluids filtered by the prototype have pollutant levels below detectable or legal limits. It therefore follows that this system is environmentally sustainable, as it avoids the formation of point source pollution. The eco-friendly nature of Agrobox also relates to significant water savings. By filtering wastewater, the prototype is able to create to all intents and purposes a closed circuit. The design is still experimental and can therefore be improved. For example the volume of the end-of-filtration concentrate is 7.8% of the initial flow rate. Worthy of mention is the commitment of the technicians who are studying an automatic washing system to standardise the time spent and clean the vehicles; creating special centres. It should also be noted that the use of the prototype is not only limited to the primary sector, but can also be used for washing waste water from industrial processes. In conclusion, the Agrobox project has led to significant results in just two years, opening up new frontiers for both environmental sustainability and technological innovation.

Disclosure and communication of results

Specific objective: to spread the knowledge, functioning and prospects of the Agrobox system.

Validation of Agrobox

Specific objective: to verify the effectiveness of Agrobox functioning in relation to the results of the water analyzes.

Realization of Agrobox

Specific objective: to design and implement the Agrobox system for filtering contaminated water

Agrobox study and needs survey.

Specific objective: to gather information on the need of the Agrobox system through a specific multidisciplinary study at several levels. Final analysis of the economic and environmental benefits brought by the system.

Administrative and coordination activities: establish a collaboration between the project partners and coordinate the activities