The Impact of Climate Change on Water Management in Agriculture
There has been growing concern about the efficient use of water in the agricultural sector, particularly in the Mediterranean region, but not excluding other areas of Europe. With increasing pressure from drought scenarios, unpredictable rainfall or other extreme climatic events, the valorization and management of this resource has become increasingly urgent.
Water management varies by region. While in the Mediterranean Basin, reduced rainfall causes water scarcity, that leads to water restrictions for agriculture, in Belgium, drainage systems are outdated and hinder water retention with the current (reduced) average rainfall, and in the Netherlands, rising sea levels increase water salinity.
Water management thematic area can be segmented into quantity and quality, impacting four key areas:
- On-Farm Water Management | Efficient use depends on farm type, irrigation systems, farming practices, and monitoring techniques.
Adoption of new technologies and investment in irrigation equipment are crucial. - Infrastructure & Distribution | Water availability is influenced by regional/national systems adapted to the local needs. These systems need to be maintained to be efficient.
- Regulation and investment mechanisms | Efficiency is shapedthrough (1) policies, incentives, and regulations adapted to local needs, (2) public investment in water infrastructure, (3) crisis management and contingency plans and (4) alternative water sources (re-used, desalinated).
- Climate Change Impact | Changing weather patterns affect water availability, requiring new practices, technologies, and mindsets to ensure long-term sustainability.
Efficient water management is key to food security and agricultural sustainability, demanding the implementation of new practices, theinvestment in infrastructure, technology, and adapted regulations to build climate resilience.
Climate Farm Demo
Ongoing | 2022-2029
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Serbia