Three countries share a common purpose: to combat water scarcity in Southern Europe through sustainable methods. The SOLLAGUA project, co-financed by the regional development programme Interreg SUDOE 2021-2027 with 1,389,232.10 euros, has the main objective of promoting nature-based solutions (NBS) for water reuse in rural areas of Spain, Portugal, and France.
Water is the element that is most present in our lives, and yet it is becoming scarce, especially in regions located in semi-arid environments. Droughts, water stress, heat waves, water shortages, water transfers, lack of rainfall, heatwaves… The effects of climate change are already a reality and are felt by the Spanish, Portuguese, and French, who suffer more intensely than the rest of their European neighbours due to their geographical and climatic situation.
The SOLLAGUA initiative, which will run until the end of 2026, is driven by a consortium of ten partners and twenty-six associated partners from these three European countries. Led by the Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier, they will cooperate to provide a more resilient water supply in areas with high water stress and, in turn, favour the development of a circular economy based on the reuse of local wastewater, while providing an alternative to traditional end-of-pipe facilities. In addition, through the water-oriented living labs (WoLL), which are innovation ecosystems open to all project stakeholders, a comprehensive participatory approach will be ensured.
Water scarcity in southern Europe is a complex challenge that requires coordinated and multifaceted action. A combination of technological, political, and educational strategies can help mitigate the effects of water scarcity and ensure a sustainable supply for future generations. It is crucial that governments, businesses, and society work together to tackle this problem and protect one of the planet’s most vital resources. SOLLAGUA will do its bit to make this happen.
