Path4Med: Innovative Solutions to Combat Soil and Water Pollution in the Mediterranean

What is Path4Med?

Path4Med is a project funded under the Horizon 2023 program, aimed at developing innovative solutions to address nutrient contamination in the water and soil of the Mediterranean agro-hydrological system. The project falls under the European Commission's Ocean and Waters and Soil Missions, which seek to improve the environmental quality of natural resources across Europe.

Objectives of the Path4Med Project

The main goal of the project is to demonstrate innovative solutions to reduce water and soil contamination, thereby enhancing environmental sustainability and the overall health of the Mediterranean region. Specific objectives include:

• Reducing nutrient pollution (nitrogen and phosphorus) in water and soil.

• Improving the quality of water resources through advanced monitoring and management technologies.

• Promoting sustainable agriculture in the Mediterranean by addressing pollution caused by agricultural practices.

Extra Red’s Role in Path4Med

Extra Red, part of the Engineering Group, is a key partner in the project, acting as co-Work Package Leader (co-WPLeader) of WP4 (Work Package 4), which focuses on implementing the digital platform for nutrient management in the agro-hydrological system. Specifically, Extra Red is responsible for tailoring the solutions to the Italian territory, with a special focus on the Basilicata region, using the Agro Factory as a use case within the project.

Funding and Project Duration

Path4Med is supported by European funding totaling €8,483,712.50, covering 70% of the project costs. The project will run for a total duration of four years (48 months), with an expected start date in July 2024. This substantial financial support will allow for the long-term testing and implementation of solutions, ensuring concrete and measurable results.

Expected Benefits of Path4Med

The Path4Med project aims to bring multiple environmental and social benefits, including:

• Environmental Sustainability: Improvement in the quality of water and soil in agricultural and hydrological areas of the Mediterranean.

• Technological Innovation: Development of an advanced digital platform for real-time monitoring and management of natural resources.

• Public Health Improvement: Reduction of risks related to water and soil contamination, fostering a healthier environment for local communities.

• Revitalization of Agricultural Areas: Solutions tailored to agricultural practices that reduce environmental impact and enhance crop sustainability.

The Importance of Path4Med for the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is one of the regions most vulnerable to the effects of pollution and climate change. Path4Med represents a concrete response to the environmental challenges the region is facing, with a particular focus on nutrient contamination, which threatens the health of both water and soil. Through the adoption of innovative and sustainable solutions, Path4Med could become a model for other Mediterranean and global regions facing similar challenges.

Conclusion: Toward a Sustainable Future in the Mediterranean

Path4Med is not just a research project—it's a concrete response to global environmental challenges, aiming to improve the quality of the Mediterranean's natural resources. With the contribution of Extra Red, the project marks an important step toward a more sustainable and resilient future, capable of addressing nutrient contamination and promoting environmental sustainability in agricultural and water systems.