AQUAMAN PROJECT: A Smart Response to Water Scarcity in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is one of the world’s most climate-sensitive regions, facing growing challenges from rising temperatures, droughts and wildfires. These changes, combined with high water demand from tourism and agriculture, are putting severe pressure on already limited water supplies. In many Mediterranean countries, water availability is critically low, reaching levels of “structural water shortage.” During peak tourist seasons, this pressure intensifies, as visitors can use up to four times more water than local residents.

AQUAMAN (AQUAtic systems’ evaluation for the Mitigation of wAter scarcity in mediterranean islaNds and coastal tourist destinations under severe pressure) is a collaborative project uniting partners from six Mediterranean countries — including ministries, research bodies, and island municipalities — to promote smarter and greener water management. By sharing knowledge from successful EU initiatives, AQUAMAN supports coastal and island authorities in adopting sustainable practices. The project focuses on tapping into non-traditional water sources such as rainwater, stormwater and treated wastewater, reducing overall water demand and optimizing distribution systems.

A Transferable Solutions Catalogue is being developed to support the sustainable use of non-conventional water sources, reduce water consumption, and minimize losses in water distribution networks. Tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of local sites, this catalogue includes technical tools, methodologies, management plans, and policy recommendations. It serves as a practical guide for local authorities and stakeholders aiming to implement effective, sustainable water solutions.

• It features nature-based and hybrid interventions such as the previous HYDROUSA Toolkit, which provides methodologies for wetland construction, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater reuse.
• Among other included solutions are the REMEDIES humidifier technology, FIT4REUSE guidelines for irrigation and aquifer recharge, and REGENERaGUA’s socio-economic analysis of wastewater treatment impacts on islands.
• The catalogue also integrates holistic resource management approaches like water scarcity mitigation planning and the WEFE Nexus management developed under NEXUS-NESS-PRIMA.
• Complementing these are policy recommendations from HYDROUSA and ISOS+, which address barriers to the wider adoption of circular water systems, especially in small island contexts.

Through these solutions, AQUAMAN aims to safeguard precious water resources and protect the Mediterranean’s unique lifestyle and environment for generations to come.

The AQUAMAN project aims to address critical issues with a sustainable, comprehensive approach that balances the needs of tourism, agriculture, and local populations while conserving water resources for future generations. It focuses on three strategic interventions.

We are working to solve water challenges in a smart and sustainable way. It brings together local communities, tourism, and agriculture to make sure everyone has enough water—now and in the future. The project promotes the use of alternative water sources like rainwater, stormwater, and treated wastewater, helping to protect valuable freshwater supplies. It also supports the creation of wetlands, rainwater collection systems, and aquifer recharge solutions.

At the same time, AQUAMAN is helping to reduce how much water is used, especially in tourism, by raising awareness and encouraging water-saving habits. To prevent waste, the project is improving how water is distributed and used in irrigation and networks.

AQUAMAN also focuses on sharing knowledge, training, and policy advice so that communities can manage water better on their own. By connecting different regions around the Mediterranean, the project encourages cooperation, shared learning, and long-term water conservation for everyone.