Objective

To optimise irrigation systems.

Description

Improve more robust water management and policies in order to manage the competing demand between agriculture and other sectors (energy, conservation and human settlements). A shift from the gravity irrigation to modern pressurised systems (e.g. drip and sprinkler irrigation) and improved conveyance efficiency provide an opportunity for reduced water demand in irrigation. Promote irrigation below the full water needs of crops (evapotranspiration) aiming for maximum production per unit of water consumed. This technique requires adjustments in the agricultural systems, imposing changes at different levels.

Expected results

Improve adaptation techniques to dry periods.

Result indicators

Water availability [L]

Involved actors

Actors of the agricultural sectors, but also those of the sectors competing with agriculture for the same water resources.

Expected timeline for action

• Short term (1-4 years)

Best practices

• Spain
• Emilia Romagna Region – Italy
• Friuli Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region – Italy
• Apulia Region – Italy
• Dubrovačko-Neretvanska County – Croatia
• Giovinazzo – Apulia Sub-region – Italy

Criticalities

Cost and possible negative side effects (impacts on soil quality).

Scope of the action

• Adaptation

Type of proposed actions

• Grey

Sector of action

• Agriculture / Forests / Land use
• Water resource management

Climate impacts

• Drought
• Other

Implementation scale

• Association of municipalities
• Municipality
• Region / Country

Source

https://climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu/metadata/adaptation-options/improvement-of-irrigation-efficiency