The PRIMA Program invites submissions for the enhancement of sustainable farming systems within Mediterranean wetlands through the adoption of innovative and cost-effective solutions that address the interdependencies between wetlands, agroecosystems, water resources, and ecosystem services. This initiative seeks to promote sustainable agricultural practices and contribute to the conservation of Mediterranean wetlands, fostering both biodiversity and resilience to climate change.
The focus of this call is on integrating the Water-Ecosystems-Food Nexus approach, which emphasizes the crucial link between wetlands and agricultural practices, and seeks to foster sustainable, regenerative solutions. A key aspect of the program is to develop robust drought management strategies tailored specifically to the unique conditions of the Mediterranean region.
Scope of the Call
The overarching goal is to enhance the sustainability of wetland agroecosystems in the Mediterranean region. This will involve conducting comprehensive assessments of the current condition of Mediterranean wetlands, evaluating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions profiles, and exploring carbon mitigation potential. The assessments will focus on key gases such as CO2, CH4, and NO, and also consider the carbon value of ecosystem services, including food production.
In addition, this call encourages the exploration of trade-offs between wetland restoration and other ecosystem services, particularly food production. The objective is to identify methods that can mitigate potential conflicts between restoring wetlands for climate and biodiversity benefits and ensuring food security.
A crucial component of the call is the integration of local knowledge and practices. By embracing a holistic perspective that connects the water, food, and ecosystems sectors, the program aims to build sustainable solutions that address complex interactions between wetland ecosystems and their surrounding agricultural environments. These solutions will combine habitat restoration, sustainable agriculture, water management techniques, and drought management strategies. Furthermore, the solutions should be assessed using appropriate methodologies and indicators, and translated into policies that can be incorporated into existing environmental and land-use regulations.
An evaluation of the socio-economic costs and benefits of investing in wetland conservation, sustainable agriculture practices, and the role of wetlands in enhancing drought resilience is also required. Understanding these factors will help promote the adoption of wetland conservation practices among local farmers and communities.
Funding Information
The total indicative amount allocated for this call is EUR 10.8 million. Proposals are expected to have a duration of 36 months to adequately address the outlined objectives and achieve the expected outcomes. The project aims to contribute to the EU’s climate goals for 2030 and 2050, in alignment with the European Green Deal, the EU Nature Restoration Law, and the European Water Resilience Strategy. The initiative will also support the Union for the Mediterranean’s Greener Med Agenda 2030, which highlights the vital role of wetlands in providing ecosystem services for the region’s environmental and economic well-being.
Expected Outcomes
The expected outcomes of successful proposals include:
- Increased Resilience of Mediterranean Wetland Agroecosystems: Safeguarding ecosystem services such as flood and drought control while also contributing to food production and socio-economic development in the region.
- Comprehensive Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Carbon Sequestration: Conducting a thorough analysis of GHG emissions and the potential for carbon sequestration in Mediterranean wetlands, supporting climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts.
- Promotion of Innovative Mediterranean-Specific Agricultural Practices: Encouraging the use of traditional crop varieties, such as salt-tolerant barley, durum wheat, and native legumes, to preserve genetic diversity and adapt to local conditions.
Eligibility Criteria
Entities eligible to participate include any legal entity, regardless of its place of establishment, including organizations from non-associated third countries or international organizations. The following countries are considered eligible to participate in the PRIMA Program:
- EU Member States: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Slovenia, and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT) linked to these Member States.
- Third Countries Associated with Horizon Europe: Israel, Tunisia, and Türkiye.
- Other Mediterranean Partner Countries (MPC): Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Morocco, though their participation is contingent on the conclusion of an agreement with the Union.
This call provides an excellent opportunity to advance sustainable farming practices, improve wetland conservation, and support the resilience of Mediterranean ecosystems, while aligning with global and regional environmental and economic goals.
