Fostering the non-conventional water re-use in agriculture in Mediterranean countries: the MENAWARA project

The Mediterranean region is considered as one of the world’s most water-stressed areas where some countries have less than 1000 m3 capita-1 year-1. This situation, exacerbated by climate change, is due to, but not restricted to, the relatively uneven distribution of precipitation, high temperatures and increasing water demand, especially for agricultural purposes. Under this context, the use of Non-Conventional Water (NCW), as drainage and treated wastewater, is one of the most sustainable alternatives to cope with water shortage. The MENAWARA project is designed to enhance access to water through the treatment of wastewater to be reused as complementary irrigation and to strengthen the operational capacity of stakeholders of the quadruple helix, including local farmers, in 8 intervention areas of Palestine, Jordan, Tunisia, Spain and Italy. The actions will reduce the stress on freshwater sources from the agriculture sector and will improve the quality of treated wastewater in agriculture. Clean and environmentally friendly technological, managerial, and operational innovation will be applied and results shared among relevant stakeholders. MENAWARA will play an important role in reducing water insecurity by designing the most suitable post-treatment or Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) system for each intervention area and by promoting sustainable development in rural areas.