CIRCE promotes sustainable nutrient management in the Ebro Basin through the Nenuphar project

The Member Communities promoted by the European innovation project Nenuphar, coordinated by CIRCE - Centro Tecnológico, have begun to consolidate in order to improve governance in the management of diffuse nutrient pollution generated in Europe’s river basins. In this context, the Interregional Coordination Roundtable in the Ebro Basin, one of the main actions of this project, is already underway. This collaborative space between Aragón and Catalonia allows actors from the agri-livestock sector and public administrations to work together to define joint strategies aligned with European regulations.

An environmental challenge with sustainable solutions

Excess nutrients in water and soil is one of the main environmental challenges in Europe, especially in regions with intense agri-livestock activity. The accumulation of slurry and its improper management have caused a diffuse pollution problem, affecting water quality and biodiversity. In this context, the Nenuphar project seeks to turn this issue into an opportunity by promoting the recycling of nitrogen and phosphorus from residual flows to reduce pollution and dependency on chemical fertilizers.

Coordination between regions: the Interregional Coordination Roundtable

One of the key milestones of the project has been the creation of the Interregional Coordination Roundtable between Aragón and Catalonia, a collaborative workspace where administrations and producers can define joint strategies aligned with European regulations.

The first meeting of this community brought together representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Food of the Government of Aragón, CIRCE - Centro Tecnológico, Beta Tech Center, and the Confederation of Irrigators of Aragón and Catalonia, as well as key administrations and stakeholders from both regions. During the session, participatory activities were held that helped identify the main challenges and define strategic lines for the future operation of the Interregional Coordination Roundtable.

In this context, three key strategic lines were defined to address the sustainable management of nutrients in the Ebro Basin. The first focuses on the optimization of slurry use as a biofertilizer, ensuring its utilization within the current regulatory framework. The second aims to reduce environmental penalties by promoting the adoption of good practices and the implementation of innovative technologies that minimize impacts on soil and water. Lastly, it was agreed to promote interregional cooperation between Aragón and Catalonia to harmonize regulations and foster more sustainable and efficient management models.

The Beta Technological Center, as the entity responsible for governance within the project, is leading the development of this working group, ensuring its continuity and dynamism.

The Roundtable continues to welcome new members from the agri-livestock sector, public administrations, NGOs, and research centers who wish to join the cause. Through the Nenuphar website, interested parties can register and actively contribute to the creation of sustainable solutions for nutrient management in the Ebro Basin.

Join us and help build a more sustainable future for the Ebro Basin!