After facing the hottest and driest summer in 500 years across Europe and other parts of the world, the Old Continent has seen images unthinkable until recently. Climate change is evident and is showing its worst face on both shores of the Mediterranean and in many other parts of the world. Its effects were already felt in the daily lives of the entire population, especially in economic sectors such as agriculture, which is the leading consumer of water.
Today the world is celebrating World Day to combat desertification and drought (17th June). Discover how PRIMA tackles this pressing challenge in times of climate change.
The world celebrates the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22nd to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues, which remain the answer to several sustainable development challenges. Not only is the health of the planet underpinned by biodiversity, it is also our health and livelihoods that depend on the balance between all organisms in the ecosystems. That’s why several PRIMA funded projects focus on preserving biodiversity.
Together with olive oil and wine, bread is one of the signs of the Mediterranean identity. It is a fundamental food for the entire population: the basis of food security. But climate change is threatening its production, so science needs to come to help.
How can we adapt to and mitigate the effects of droughts? PRIMA works on different lines of action to meet this challenge. Drought is not a new phenomenon, but the climate crisis has accelerated it to threaten both sides of the Mare Nostrum. Because of climate change, rising temperatures and decreasing precipitation, the frequency and severity of the drought have increased.
A source of vitamins and part of the rich Mediterranean diet, the fruit of the 21st century needs help to survive global warming. The collaborative work of scientists from both shores is fundamental to meeting the challenge. Three PRIMA projects try to find a solution to meet this challenge.
Managing the relationships between water, energy, food, and ecosystems is a pending issue to address climate change. This interconnection is called the WEFE Nexus approach. Lead by PRIMA, the WEFE Nexus Community of Practice is about to be launched.
It is necessary and urgent that agri-food systems evolve towards more sustainable models from an environmental and social point of view. Greenhouse gases emitted by agricultural production and livestock farming must be drastically reduced, as well as food waste and losses; the soil, natural resources and biodiversity must be respected more decisively; every person must have access to healthy and nutritious food; diets more attentive to individual and collective well-being must spread faster.
The innovation and scientific diplomacy program funds projects in the fields of sustainable and integrated water management, farming systems and agro-food value chain.
The foundation, which is financed by the EU and by 19 states from both shores of the Mediterranean, focuses on the Mediterranean diet as a key element to preserve health and the environment.
Water is the most precious resource in the Mediterranean basin. It is a source of development and an engine of economic activity.
