Water resources management in southern Europe: Clues for a research and innovation based regional hypercluster

Abstract

European countries are facing increasing pressures on their water resources despite stringent regulations and systematic efforts on environmental protection. In this context, research and innovation play a strategic role reinforcing the efficiency of water policies. The present study provides a multilevel assessment of research and innovation practices in the field of water resource management in southern European countries and regions (more specifically; Cyprus, Albania, Poitou-Charentes in France, Andalusia in Spain and the North of Portugal). The analysis was based on a strategic framework aimed at gaining an insight of the current constraints, as well as of the existing and future technological solutions for a better water resource management. The triple helix model proved to be a useful analytical framework for assessing the efforts of different groups towards a common goal. The analysis proved the existence of a significant evolution in the use of technological tools to assist decision-making processes in integrated river basin management in all regions. Nevertheless, the absence of formal channels for knowledge and data exchange between researchers and water resource managers complicates the formers involvement in the decision-making process regarding water allocation. Both researchers and consultants emphasize the low availability of data, together with the need to advance on water resource economics as relevant constraints in the field. The SWOT analysis showed similar concerns among the participating regions and provided a battery of effective projects that resulted in the preparation of a Joint Action Plan.

Fostering Cross-Sector Collaboration to Promote Innovation in the Water Sector

“…Linked with rapid urbanization, the increase in demand arises mainly from manufacturing (400%), electricity (140%) and domestic use (130%) [29,30]. Furthermore, water consumption for irrigated agriculture and recreational activities contribute to the intensified pressure on water resources [7,11,31].…”

“…3000-1100 BC Waste water reuse was common in Ancient Greek and Roman civilizations as well [6]. Nowadays, despite stringent regulations and systematic efforts for water protection, water resources are increasingly under pressure [7]. According to the European Environment Agency [8], freshwater resources are seriously stressed in several EU regions.…”

Fragmented local governance and water resource management outcomes

“…While the challenges are often grand, managing water resource systems is critical and high on the priority lists of various organizations (ranging from grass-roots groups to international agencies) as it is essential for human well-being, although management contexts vary significantly by region or country (see e.g., Komatsu et al, 2010;Marsh, 2012;Martins et al, 2013). In the United States, the FY2013 National Water Program Guidance (U.S.…”

Ecosystem services and multifunctional agriculture: Unravelling informal stakeholders' perceptions and water governance in three European irrigation systems

“…Irrigation is an emblematic agricultural practice of the Mediterranean regions and is a key factor in the socioeconomic dynamism of the territory (Brady, Sahrbacher, Kellermann, & Happe, 2012;Krome, 2017). In regions such as Catalonia (Spain), Midi-Pyrénées (France), and Lombardy (Italy; Figure 1), hydraulic constructions have played a central role in the social, political, and cultural life in these regions (Martins et al, 2013).…”