RESCUE

Coastal freshwater resources are under significant strain due to rising populations, pollution, and climate change, resulting in critical water shortages in various European coastal regions following prolonged droughts. The RESCUE initiative aims to improve water security by investigating and innovating methods to discover freshwater in uncharted coastal and offshore aquifers, which could be essential during peak demand periods.

Leveraging recent scientific advancements, RESCUE intends to map deep (over 400 meters) onshore and offshore low salinity aquifers to enhance water supplies for drinking, agriculture, and industrial uses, while also reducing desalination expenses. The project merges academic and industry knowledge across hydrogeology, geophysics, big data analytics, and public outreach. It will utilize existing geological information, oil and gas datasets, and new data collection efforts to develop comprehensive models for water resources in European Mediterranean coastal areas. Advanced computing will combine physical and digital data for thorough modeling, and engaging stakeholders will enrich the data set. Additionally, the project will assess the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of resource extraction, taking public opinions into account.

RESCUE is in line with various EU and international initiatives focused on climate adaptation, innovative water management strategies, and sustainable practices. It aims to inform policy-making to address climate extremes, ensure access to clean water, and contribute to UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. The methodologies and insights derived from the project will be relevant globally, offering benefits to both developed and developing nations.

Total project investment: 1.189.806,75 € 

OGS investment: 74.185,71 € 

Pilot regions:

• Italy
• United Kingdom
• Malta
• Norway 

Lead partner:

• University of Trieste, Italy

Partners: 

• National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics - OGS, Italy
• Ruden, Norway
• University of Malta
• University of Derby, UK