PRIMA Multi-Topics

The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) announces a new call for proposals under Section 2, focusing on multiple thematic areas within the nexus of water management, farming systems, and the agri-food value chain. This Research and Innovation Action (RIA) targets innovative solutions to address pressing challenges in the Mediterranean region.

Thematic Areas:

1. Water Management in the Nexus

Topic:

Effective Water Accounting Approaches Under Crisis Conditions

Challenge:

Addressing sustainable and equitable water delivery amidst climate change and external shocks, like the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, which exacerbate water scarcity and contamination issues.

Scope:

Innovate water accounting approaches for better management and governance, leveraging new technologies and data sources to enhance water security and promote equitable and sustainable use.

2. Farming Systems in the Nexus

Topic:

Revitalizing Agroforestry Practices for Climate Resilience

Challenge:

Overcoming the abandonment of forest maintenance and promoting sustainable land use through agroforestry, a practice combining trees with crops or livestock, for carbon sequestration and resilience against climate change.

Scope:

Propose innovative strategies for the adoption and scaling up of agroforestry practices, enhancing ecosystem services and improving livelihoods for farmers in the Mediterranean region.

3. Food Value Chain in the Nexus

Topic:

Leveraging Urban and Local Food Systems for Sustainable Transformation

Challenge:

Addressing the challenges of urbanization and climate change on food systems, emphasizing the role of farmers markets in enhancing food security, sustainability, and economic development.

Scope:

Strengthen regulatory frameworks and infrastructure for urban and peri-urban agriculture, integrating agriculture into urban landscapes, and promoting circular bioeconomy principles for a resilient food system.

Expected Impacts:

• Improved water security, sustainable land use, and climate resilience through innovative water management and agroforestry practices.
• Enhanced agricultural productivity, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.
• Strengthened food systems with reduced food loss and waste, promoting sustainable production and consumption.
• Development of comprehensive policies addressing food safety, nutrition requirements, and public health impacts.

About PRIMA:

PRIMA is a long-term partnership aimed at fostering joint research and innovation in the Mediterranean region to address challenges such as water scarcity, sustainable agriculture, and food security. Through collaborative efforts, PRIMA supports the transition towards more sustainable, inclusive, and healthier Mediterranean societies, contributing to the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Participation and Collaboration:

Projects are encouraged to adopt a multi-actor approach, involving a wide range of stakeholders to ensure relevance, applicability, and societal impact. Collaboration with ongoing PRIMA, H2020, and Horizon Europe projects is recommended to leverage synergies and enhance outcomes.

Submission Guidelines:

Proposals must align with the objectives and scope detailed for each thematic area and be submitted in accordance with PRIMA’s guidelines by the specified deadlines. Selected projects are expected to produce tangible outcomes, fostering policy development and stakeholder engagement across the Mediterranean region.

This call represents a significant opportunity for researchers, innovators, and practitioners to contribute to addressing the complex challenges faced by the Mediterranean region through collaborative research and innovation efforts. By focusing on water management, farming systems, and the agri-food value chain, PRIMA aims to foster sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience in the face of global challenges.