Nexus Living Labs for Multi-Level Innovation in Mediterranean Irrigated Agriculture (NEXUSLABS)
NexusLabs is a PRIMA-funded Innovation Action that promotes sustainable irrigated agriculture across the Mediterranean through the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus approach. The project combines smart farming technologies, Nature-based Solutions, and participatory Living Labs to reduce water consumption and energy footprints while improving agricultural productivity, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.
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NexusLabs operationalises the WEFE Nexus by translating research outcomes into practical solutions for Mediterranean irrigated agriculture. The project integrates remote sensing, field sensors, advanced weather forecasting, alternative water and energy sources, agroecological practices, and life-cycle sustainability assessment into a holistic framework. These innovations are demonstrated in Living Labs and supported by participatory system dynamics modelling, scenario analysis, and decision support systems to improve irrigation management. Training and market uptake activities further support large-scale implementation across the Mediterranean.
Highlights
- 1) Implements the WEFE Nexus through Mediterranean Living Labs.
- 2) Integrates smart farming, remote sensing, and field sensor technologies.
- 3) Evaluates Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and agroecological practices.
- 4) Develops a composite WEFE Index for irrigation assessment.
- 5) Develops advanced weather forecasting and early warning systems.
- 6) Applies Participatory System Dynamics Modelling (PSDM) for scenario analysis.
- 7) Performs Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) and water-energy footprint analyses.
- 8) Demonstrates innovative solutions in 10 Living Labs across seven Mediterranean countries.
