Interreg GEMS Project Kicks Off with First Meeting in Murcia

In light of water scarcity and nitrate pollution from agricultural activities, the Interreg GEMS project aims to improve public policies for groundwater management.

The first meeting marked the official launch of GEMS, bringing together partners from Denmark, Belgium, France, Malta, Austria and Slovakia in Murcia. The kickoff event showcased Murcia's initiatives in groundwater management, focusing on innovative practices to reduce nitrate levels and precision agriculture.

During these days, the participants had the opportunity to better understand the situation in each partner territory and visit some relevant initiatives in the Region of Murcia.

Key Highlights:

• Efficient Water Distribution: The Campo de Cartagena Irrigation Community demonstrated efficient water distribution systems for agriculture.
• Advanced Irrigation Systems: The Polytechnic University of Cartagena introduced real-time water infiltration control systems and irrigation automation software.
• Precision Agriculture: Widhoc Smart Solutions S.L. explores cutting-edge technological solutions for efficient irrigation.
• Bio-residues Transformation: Cetenma presented methods to convert bio-residues into effective soil remediation products.

Over the next four years, GEMS will explore best practices across the EU, fostering knowledge transfer and collaborative governance to mitigate nitrate pollution in groundwater through international cooperation and innovation.