1

Why the project matters

The Mediterranean faces critical pressures on land and water resources, worsened by poor sludge management practices. Landfilling of wastewater sludge not only wastes valuable nutrients but also risks polluting ecosystems and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, agriculture across the region suffers from declining soil fertility, water scarcity, and overuse of chemical fertilizers. MedRESOURCE addresses these connected problems by demonstrating safe, efficient ways to reuse sludge as a resource for soil and crop improvement.

2

What it aims to achieve

• To demonstrate innovative, safe, and effective methods for reusing treated wastewater sludge in agriculture.
• To improve local capacities and practices for circular water and sludge management through training and engagement.
• To support policy change by producing practical guidelines for integrating sludge reuse into national frameworks.

3

Expected change

• Increased soil fertility and crop yields through use of compost, biochar, and optimized fertilizers.
• Reduced pollution and landfilling of sludge across four Mediterranean pilot areas.
• Greater awareness, skills, and acceptance of sludge reuse among farmers, authorities, and communities.

4

What the project delivers

• 4 Living Labs in Jericho (Palestine), Arborea (Italy), Nabeul (Tunisia), and Al Ramtha (Jordan) demonstrating safe and effective sludge reuse for compost, fertilizer, and biochar.
•Capacity-building programmes reaching at least 200 local beneficiaries, including farmers and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) managers, to improve knowledge and practices in sludge recovery and reuse.
• 4 international study visits to exchange best practices and foster regional learning (60–120 participants).
• Co-developed policy guidelines to improve national and regional sludge reuse strategies.

5

Who benefits

• Around 430 farmers directly involved in training and pilot activities across the 4 countries.
• Wastewater treatment plant managers and local authorities improving sludge handling practices.
• Ministries in charge of Environment, Water Resources, and Agriculture.
• Local Water Authorities
• Research, Higher Education, and Professional Training Organizations for agricultural sector.