Green Agriculture Revolution in Sardinia
Decarbonization of agricultural practices and combating agricultural pollution in Sardinia, Italy
Context
Agriculture is one of the most important economic sectors in Sardinia, yet local farming systems are characterised by high water demand, inefficient irrigation practices, and significant nutrient and pesticide runoff, often affecting sensitive water bodies prone to eutrophication.
CARDIMED DEMO3 is implemented in the peri-urban agricultural area of Alghero, covering approximately 1.5 hectares of private land, and applies an integrated Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) system to reduce water demand, improve water quality, and minimise the environmental impact of agricultural drainage and runoff. The DEMO combines advanced water purification, renewable energy, and sustainable agricultural practices to address water scarcity, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
The interventions aim to enhance water, nutrient, and carbon cycles, protect downstream ecosystems such as the Calich lagoon, and support resilient and sustainable food production systems.
Output
Implementation of an integrated NbS-based agricultural system in two locations—Alghero rural area and the Calich lagoon plain—demonstrating the decarbonisation of agriculture and livestock practices while improving water reuse, water quality, energy efficiency, and carbon performance. The DEMO provides a replicable model for sustainable agriculture in Mediterranean regions.
Solutions
- Free water surface constructed wetland
- Photobioreactor (pilot)
- Riparian buffer
- Aquaculture system
