Two projects involving LSRE-LCM researchers have been selected for funding by the 2022 Transnational Joint Call under the Water4All Partnership. This achievement aligns with LSRE-LCM's commitment to sustainable water research. The Water4All Partnership -Water Security for the Planet- is a funding programme for scientific research aimed at addressing water challenges, combating climate change, helping achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, and boosting the EU's competitiveness and growth. It is co-funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe program. The general kick-off meeting of the projects approved in the first joint call of the Water4All partnership took place on the 23rd and 24th of April in Madrid.

Project 1: SWMOF - A Smart Process for Water Harvesting and Distribution

Led by Alexandre Ferreira, professor at FEUP and member of ALiCE and LSRE-LCM, the SWMOF project is set to revolutionize water production and distribution in the Mediterranean region, a vulnerable area facing increased temperatures and decreased rainfall. This 36-month project aims to optimize water distribution in small farms using cutting-edge control systems, real-time optimization, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, the project focuses on developing water harvesting technology based on eco-friendly MOFs (Metal-Organic Frameworks) to extract water from air moisture, providing a sustainable water source for these regions.

Project 2: NeWater - Natural-Based and Low Energy Consumption Solutions for Water Management

The NeWater project, coordinated by Sapienza Università di Roma, aims to integrate hybrid grey and green solutions for efficient water treatment adaptable to specific regions. Principal researcher Vítor Vilar, a member of ALiCE and LSRE-LCM, is a core team member of this three-year project (2024-2026). NeWater focuses on developing water systems that maximize the recovery of value-added resources, promoting carbon-neutral services for water, nutrient, and energy reuse. The project also integrates innovative water management strategies, business models, and regulatory recommendations to catalyze a transformative shift towards a resource-efficient society.

LSRE-LCM looks forward to the impactful outcomes and contributions these projects will make toward a more sustainable and water-secure planet.

LSRE-LCM researcher Isabel Martins recently visited Colégio "O Pimpolho" in Maia for a special science session with very enthusiastic 4- to 5-year-old children. The children played a fun game, guessing scents like rosemary, cinnamon, and lavender. Isabel also demonstrated and explained the process of manufacturing perfumes and detergents. Bringing science to meet children's curiosity and enthusiasm made this session a success!