Our story

WATERISE unites six islands, brought together in a partnership by Pantelleria Municipality, aware of the the threatening challenges posed by the climate crisis in the region. Warming 20% faster than the global average, the Mediterranean region turned as a climate change Hotspot indeed. Severe drought conditions result of long-lasting, above-average temperatures, warm spells and poor rainfalls affects its islands, which face a twofold challenge: chronic water shortage and peak tourism flows. 

Alongside with challenges like water crisis, desertification, floods, coastal erosion, these islands share also common heritages bringing opportunites: water-saving traditions and living traditions of sustainable water care, nowadays appear as solid anchors from which to seek new solutions for sustainability and development in harmony with the fragile natural balance.

Who are we?

6 islands, located in 5 Mediterranean countries, represented by 3 municipalities,  1 island council, 1 region, 1 research and development organization, 1 tourism board. We can count on the scientific coordination of a prestigious university and the support of a network of towns and islands.

Lead Partner of WATERISE. A municipality governing one of the most emblematic Mediterranean islands: Pantelleria is internationally recognized for its pioneering water conservation practices.
governing an island designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a forerunner in ambitious sustainable economy programmes.
Engaged in local development and sustainable education projects. It features the Pembroke Natural Park, a prominent educational site for the furtherance of the study of the ecology, flora, fauna, geology and history of the Maltese Islands.
Located in the captivating northwest coast of Corsica in the Balagne region and significantly investing in green infrastructures.
A local authority facing the complex challenge of balancing water needs for residents, a booming seasonal tourism industry, and the humanitarian demands of migrant first reception.
A research and development organization dedicated to generate positive change across local, national, regional, and global contexts. It has the transversal role of feeding WATERISE’s transnational virtual community.
Anon-profit organization devoted to promoting Nicosia District as a tourist destination in one of the most water scarce Mediterranean countries. Here the first ‘green community’ of WATERISE will be developed.  

Transversal Partners

Scientific Coordinator of WATERISE, through its Department of Environmental Engineering undertakes a transnational role to design and monitor the efficacy of the pilot actions integrating Rain Water Harvesting, Natural Wastewater Treatment Systems and Atmospheric Water Generatotion technologies.
Network of local authorities and civil society organizations, it fosters horizontal cooperation through joint learning and advocacy. With its members in 11 EU countries and thanks to its solid international positioning will develop the transnational communication and results amplification strategies of WATERISE.