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Horizon Europe
1 phase
Strategic Analysis
This Innovation Action (IA) topic focuses on overcoming critical barriers to scaling up circular water management in agriculture. Winning proposals will demonstrate real-life, large-scale solutions for alternative water sources, coupled with robust business models, comprehensive impact assessments on soil, crops, and ecosystems, and actionable policy recommendations. A strong emphasis on the multi-actor approach and effective knowledge transfer to farmers is crucial for success.
TRL 4 → 8
Based on programme defaults
test different strategies and technologies for irrigation or for other agricultural purposes (including drinking water for livestock), using alternative water sources (considering the most feasible sources according to the specific conditions of availability, climate, soil, socio-economics, environment) in the long-term in real-life contexts across the EU and Associated Countries (where relevant) at a larger scale beyond small experimental sites, covering the whole water cycle in agriculture;
identify and test different business models regarding financial viability and long-term economic sustainability (including cost-benefit analysis or agro-economic modelling) for the adoption of alternative water sources, considering different scenarios, pedo-climatic conditions and socio-economic contexts;
evaluate the long-term impact of the use of alternative water sources on soil health, including the soil microbiome, crop productivity and quality, food and feed safety (especially for fresh-consumed products) and on freshwater resources and ecosystems (surface and groundwater), considering seasonal variations of water source quality (including persistent chemicals and microplastics’ releases) and quantity, such as situations of extreme water scarcity;
test and document cost-efficient methodologies and techniques to monitor most relevant quality and quantity parameters in real-time and/or to remove contaminants (e.g. using bio-filters) for a safe and efficient management of water from different sources, with particular attention to emerging contaminants especially in reclaimed water;
identify societal, behavioural and regulatory challenges still hampering upscaling of alternative water sources’ uptake for irrigation and development of suitable solutions to increase the uptake in practice;
develop, test and make recommendations for improved and targeted incentives and policies at regional, national and European level to reduce financial, social and economic barriers for adoption and acceptance of circular water management in agriculture by farmers and consumers;
enhance the dissemination of existing knowledge, by connecting actors, policies, projects and instruments to speed up adoption of solutions by practitioners, and by providing training and advice for farmers and demonstration activities. Complementarities with European and national AKIS knowledge channels or similar should be explored.
sustainable pathways to scale up the use of alternative water sources by farmers in agriculture in different contexts in the EU and Associated Countries (where relevant) are developed;
enhanced knowledge is available to farmers on the long-term impact of alternative water sources for irrigation and other uses with special attention to emerging contaminants;
resilience of farming systems to water scarcity is increased, especially in areas where droughts are becoming more frequent, longer and more intense, due to climate change;
awareness and confidence of farmers and consumers in alternative water use in agriculture is increased.
Agri-food systems contribute to the EU strategic autonomy by fostering food and nutrition security practices and safeguarding long-term sustainability with multi-disciplinary approaches including One Health.
Farmers and relevant actors in agricultural primary sector are enabled to manage sustainable, efficient, profitable, circular, low greenhouse gas-emitting farming systems contributing to climate-neutrality and climate-resilience. This will be achieved by new knowledge, innovation and the upscaling and replication of existing and new sustainable farming approaches, including organic farming, while making farming a professionally attractive and remunerative life choice.
Sustainable and resource efficient farming practices contribute to ecosystems´ health, and their related ecosystem services, while minimising pollution, including in surface and groundwaters and the marine environment, and restoring and protecting biodiversity.
Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture (including organic aquaculture) contribute to fair, healthy, resilient and environment-friendly food systems, promote low-impact and diverse aquatic food production. Healthy aquatic ecosystems with thriving diversity of species and habitats provide ecosystem and climate services for safe and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture and use of coastal zones for leisure activities, thus triggering growth and jobs’ creation in coastal, and rural areas. Technological knowledge on the elimination of negative impacts of fishing and aquaculture is improved, in particular through the creation of innovative, more selective, energy and resource efficient and environmentally sustainable techniques.
The just transition to overall sustainable, healthy and inclusive food systems is consistently developed. Analysis of existing barriers and enablers to change allows to design effective leverages to steer the sustainability transition. Co-benefits for climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental sustainability and circularity, sustainable healthy diets, malnutrition and hunger reduction are delivered.
Food environments are transformed so that citizens and communities are empowered to move towards healthy, affordable and sustainable diets; food businesses can flourish; food processing industries’ competitiveness is improved, while ensuring sustainability; food safety and food sovereignty as well as human health is preserved and food waste is reduced.
R&I in line with the strategic approach to EU agricultural research and innovation
highThis refers to the overarching strategy guiding EU research and innovation investments in agriculture, aiming to foster sustainable, productive, and resilient agricultural systems. It typically emphasizes digital transformation, ecological approaches, and solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation, aligning with the Green Deal and Farm to Fork objectives.
Proposals should clearly demonstrate how their R&I activities align with the strategic priorities for EU agricultural research, contributing to sustainable resource management, climate resilience, and the digital transformation of the sector. Specific mention of how the project advances the strategic approach is expected.
European Green Deal
highThe European Green Deal is the EU's overarching growth strategy to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050. It encompasses a wide range of policy initiatives across various sectors, including energy, industry, transport, and agriculture, aiming for a just and inclusive transition. It sets ambitious targets for emissions reduction, renewable energy, and energy efficiency.
Proposals must clearly articulate how they contribute to the overarching goals of the European Green Deal, such as achieving climate neutrality, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainable industrial practices, or fostering the deployment of clean energy technologies. Demonstrating a positive environmental impact and alignment with the 'do no significant harm' principle is crucial.
Climate Adaptation Strategy
highDirectly aligns with the call’s focus on climate-resilient irrigation and water management. Proposals must demonstrate how project outcomes contribute to EU climate adaptation goals.
Quantification of climate resilience benefits (e.g., reduced water stress, improved yields under extreme weather). Policy recommendations for adaptation strategies at EU, national, and regional levels are highly valued.
Water Framework Directive
highThe Water Framework Directive (WFD) is the cornerstone of EU water policy, aiming to achieve good ecological and chemical status for all EU waters. It establishes a framework for the protection of inland surface waters, transitional waters, coastal waters, and groundwater, requiring Member States to manage their water bodies through river basin management plans. It promotes sustainable water use and prevents further deterioration of water quality.
Proposals should demonstrate how their circular water management solutions contribute to the objectives of the WFD, such as improving water quality, achieving good ecological status, and ensuring sustainable water use in agricultural contexts. This includes addressing pollution from agriculture and promoting water efficiency.
Water Reuse Regulation
highThe Regulation (EU) 2020/741 on minimum requirements for water reuse sets harmonised standards for the safe reuse of treated urban wastewater for agricultural irrigation. It aims to facilitate water reuse, reduce water scarcity, and ensure a high level of protection for human health and the environment across the EU.
Proposals must demonstrate how their circular water management solutions, particularly those involving the reuse of treated wastewater in agriculture, comply with or contribute to the implementation of the Water Reuse Regulation. This includes addressing minimum quality requirements, monitoring, and risk management for agricultural irrigation.
Zero Pollution Action Plan
highThe Zero Pollution Action Plan is a key deliverable of the European Green Deal, aiming to reduce air, water, and soil pollution to levels no longer harmful to human health and natural ecosystems by 2050. It sets targets for 2030 to cut pollution from various sources, promoting a toxic-free environment.
Proposals should demonstrate how they contribute to reducing pollution in soil and water, preventing contamination, and promoting cleaner practices in forest management. This includes addressing issues like nutrient runoff, pesticide residues, and other contaminants that can impact soil health.
Food Safety Regulations
highEU food safety regulations, such as the General Food Law, aim to ensure a high level of protection of human health and consumers' interests in relation to food. They cover the entire food chain, from farm to fork, setting standards for hygiene, contaminants, residues, and traceability to guarantee that food produced and sold in the EU is safe.
While not the primary focus, proposals should implicitly or explicitly ensure that any digital innovations or agricultural practices proposed do not compromise food safety standards. If new technologies or practices are introduced, their impact on food safety should be considered, particularly regarding residues or contaminants.
EU Vision for Agriculture and Food
highThis vision outlines the long-term direction for the EU's agricultural and food sectors, focusing on sustainability, resilience, food security, and fair income for farmers. It often emphasizes innovation, digital transformation, and adapting to climate change challenges while ensuring a robust food supply.
Proposals should demonstrate how their digital innovations contribute to a more resilient, sustainable, and secure agricultural and food system, aligning with the long-term strategic goals for the sector. This includes addressing resource efficiency, climate adaptation, and the economic viability of farming.
Biodiversity Strategy
mediumThe EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 is a comprehensive, long-term plan to protect nature and reverse the degradation of ecosystems. It aims to put Europe's biodiversity on a path to recovery by 2030, for the benefit of people, climate, and the planet. Key targets include protecting 30% of EU land and sea, restoring degraded ecosystems, and reducing pesticide use.
Proposals should demonstrate how circular water management in agriculture can contribute to biodiversity protection and restoration, for example, by reducing water abstraction from natural ecosystems, improving water quality, or creating habitats through sustainable water infrastructure.
Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
mediumCommon Agricultural Policy supports sustainable agriculture. Less relevant unless the proposal involves bio-based materials or food processing.
Only relevant for proposals with agricultural or bio-based components.
Plant Protection Products Framework
mediumThe EU framework for Plant Protection Products (PPPs), primarily Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, governs the authorisation, use, and marketing of pesticides. It aims to ensure a high level of protection for human and animal health and the environment, promoting sustainable use of pesticides and reducing their risks and impacts.
Proposals should demonstrate how circular water management practices can reduce the need for or impact of Plant Protection Products, for example, by improving plant health through optimal water supply, or by preventing the spread of residues through water reuse systems. Consideration of PPP residues in reused water is also important.
Contingency Plan for Ensuring Food Supply and Food Security
mediumThe EU's Contingency Plan for ensuring food supply and food security aims to strengthen the EU's preparedness and response to food crises. It focuses on monitoring risks, enhancing coordination among Member States, and ensuring the availability and accessibility of food, particularly in times of disruption.
Proposals should demonstrate how their digital innovations contribute to enhancing the resilience of agricultural production systems, thereby indirectly strengthening food supply and security, especially in the face of climate change impacts like water and nutrient scarcity.
Multi-disciplinary Strategy for European Life Sciences
mediumThis strategy (e.g., the Communication 'Boosting Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing in the EU') aims to harness the potential of life sciences and biotechnology for sustainable solutions across various sectors, including health, agriculture, and industry. It promotes research, innovation, and the responsible development and deployment of biotechnological applications.
Proposals could demonstrate how biotechnological approaches (e.g., bioremediation, microbial solutions for water treatment, bio-sensors) contribute to circular water management in agriculture. This would involve leveraging life sciences for innovative and sustainable water solutions.
Communication “Building the Future with Nature: Boosting Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing in the EU”
mediumThis Communication (COM/2023/445 final) outlines the European Commission's strategy to leverage biotechnology and biomanufacturing for sustainable solutions across various sectors, including agriculture. It aims to foster innovation, accelerate market uptake, and ensure a competitive and resilient bio-economy in the EU, aligning with Green Deal objectives.
Proposals should demonstrate how they integrate biotechnological or biomanufacturing approaches into circular water management in agriculture, for instance, through advanced bioremediation, bio-based sensors, or novel biological processes for water treatment and reuse. Emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and scalability is expected.
EU Action Plan for the Development of Organic Production
lowAnimal Health and Welfare Legislations
lowEU animal health and welfare legislations (e.g., Animal Health Law Regulation (EU) 2016/429) set high standards for the health and welfare of farmed animals. They cover aspects such as disease prevention and control, animal identification, transport, and farming conditions, aiming to protect animals and public health.
If the digital innovations have any application in livestock farming, proposals should ensure compliance with and, ideally, contribute to improved animal health and welfare standards through better monitoring, management, or environmental control.
Regulation on Feed Additives
lowRegulation (EC) No 1831/2003 on additives for use in animal nutrition establishes rules for the authorisation, marketing, and use of feed additives. Its objective is to ensure the safety of feed additives for animal health, human health, and the environment, as well as to ensure the efficacy of the additives.
This regulation is generally not directly relevant to circular water management in agriculture. It would only become relevant if the proposed water management solutions indirectly impact feed production (e.g., through specific crop cultivation for feed) and if there are concerns about contaminants from water reuse affecting feed safety.
Protein Strategy
lowThe EU Protein Strategy aims to increase the EU's self-sufficiency in plant proteins, reduce reliance on imported feed, and promote sustainable protein production. It encourages research and innovation into alternative protein sources, improved protein efficiency in animal diets, and sustainable cultivation of protein crops.
Proposals could demonstrate how digital innovations contribute to more efficient and sustainable protein production in agriculture, for example, through optimized cultivation of protein crops in water/nutrient-scarce environments or improved nutrient management for protein synthesis.
Common Fisheries Policy (CFP)
lowThe Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the EU's set of rules for managing European fishing fleets and conserving fish stocks. Its aim is to ensure that fishing and aquaculture are environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable and that they provide a source of healthy food for EU citizens.
Not applicable to agriculture.
European Oceans Pact
lowThe European Oceans Pact is an initiative under the EU Mission 'Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030'. It aims to engage citizens, stakeholders, and policymakers in co-creating solutions for ocean and water protection and restoration. It fosters a sense of shared responsibility and collective action for the health of our marine and freshwater ecosystems.
While primarily focused on oceans and waters, proposals could demonstrate how improved circular water management in agriculture reduces nutrient and pollutant runoff into freshwater systems, ultimately benefiting coastal and marine environments. Engagement with stakeholders in water management could also align with the pact's participatory approach.
Control Regulation
lowThe Control Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 establishes a comprehensive system of control, inspection, and enforcement to ensure compliance with the rules of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). It covers aspects such as fishing vessel monitoring, catch reporting, and traceability of fishery and aquaculture products.
This regulation is specific to fisheries and aquaculture and is not relevant to circular water management in agriculture.
Strategic Guidelines for a More Sustainable and Competitive EU Aquaculture for the Period 2021 to 2030
lowThese guidelines set out a common vision for the development of EU aquaculture, focusing on sustainability, competitiveness, resilience, and social acceptance. They aim to support the sector in achieving environmental, economic, and social sustainability, contributing to the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy.
Not directly applicable to circular water management in agriculture. If the proposal involves integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems (aquaponics, etc.) with circular water, it could be relevant. Otherwise, it's out of scope.
EU Biotech Act (forthcoming)
lowThe forthcoming EU Biotech Act is expected to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework to support and streamline the development and deployment of biotechnology and biomanufacturing in the EU. It aims to address regulatory hurdles, foster innovation, and ensure legal certainty for the sector, building on the Communication "Boosting Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing in the EU".
While still in development, proposals can acknowledge the future direction of EU policy in biotechnology. If the project involves advanced biotechnological solutions for circular water management, it could mention how its innovations anticipate or align with the expected goals of the Biotech Act, particularly regarding responsible innovation and market uptake.
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described in Annex A and Annex E of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.
Proposal page limits and layout: described in Part B of the Application Form available in the Submission System.
described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes.
A number of non-EU/non-Associated Countries that are not automatically eligible for funding have made specific provisions for making funding available for their participants in Horizon Europe projects. See the information in the Horizon Europe Programme Guide.
The Joint Research Centre (JRC) may participate as member of the consortium selected for funding.
The following additional eligibility criteria apply: The proposals must apply the multi-actor approach. See definition of the multi-actor approach in the introduction to this work programme part.
If projects use satellite-based earth observation, positioning, navigation and/or related timing data and services, beneficiaries must make use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS (other data and services may additionally be used).
described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes.
described in Annex C of the Work Programme General Annexes.
are described in Annex D of the Work Programme General Annexes.
are described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes and the Online Manual.
described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes.
described in Annex G of the Work Programme General Annexes.
described in the [specific topic of the Work Programme]
Application form templates — the application form specific to this call is available in the Submission System
Standard application form (HE RIA, IA)
Evaluation form templates — will be used with the necessary adaptations
Standard evaluation form (HE RIA, IA)
Guidance
Model Grant Agreements (MGA)
HE Main Work Programme 2025 – 1. General Introduction
HE Main Work Programme 2025 – 9. Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment
HE Main Work Programme 2025 – 14. General Annexes
HE Framework Programme 2021/695
HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764
EU Financial Regulation 2024/2509
Rules for Legal Entity Validation, LEAR Appointment and Financial Capacity Assessment
EU Grants AGA — Annotated Model Grant Agreement
Funding & Tenders Portal Online Manual
Evaluators will prioritize proposals that clearly demonstrate a practical, scalable approach to circular water management in agriculture, moving beyond small experimental sites to real-life contexts across the EU. Key aspects will include the financial viability and long-term economic sustainability of proposed solutions, a thorough evaluation of environmental and food safety impacts (especially regarding emerging contaminants), and concrete strategies to address societal, behavioural, and regulatory barriers. The effective engagement of diverse actors through a multi-actor approach, coupled with strong dissemination and training plans for farmers, will be paramount.
4 key insights you must internalise before writing. Each is grounded in the call text and tells you what evaluators will actually look for. Share these with your consortium before drafting.
Your proposal will be rejected before evaluation if it does not correctly apply the multi-actor approach. This is an explicit, additional eligibility criterion for this call. Ensure your consortium and methodology demonstrate genuine co-creation with end-users like farmers, water authorities, and other value-chain actors from the very beginning.
Source: Eligibility rules
Evaluators are explicitly instructed to prioritize proposals demonstrating solutions in real-life contexts and at a larger scale. A project focused primarily on lab work or small, isolated pilots will not meet the call's ambition. Your work plan must feature significant demonstration activities in operational agricultural environments to be competitive.
Source: Scope / Evaluation criteria (pre-award)
A purely technological proposal will fail. The scope requires the identification and testing of different business models for financial viability and the development of targeted incentives and policies. These elements must be central to your project's structure, not just mentioned in a dissemination work package.
Source: Scope
The call text repeatedly highlights the need to address risks from emerging contaminants, persistent chemicals, and microplastics. A thorough evaluation of the long-term impact on food and feed safety is critical. Proposals that treat water quality and safety as a secondary issue will score significantly lower than those that make it a central research and innovation axis.
Source: Scope
The AI has drafted potential core elements based on the call analysis. To start building your project proposal structure, select the elements that resonate with your consortium's concept. You can refine and rewrite them fully once your project workspace is created.
Agricultural systems across the EU and Associated Countries face growing challenges from water scarcity, exacerbated by climate change and more frequent, intense droughts, threatening food production and rural livelihoods.
Despite existing knowledge, there is a significant gap in the widespread adoption of circular water management practices in agriculture due to a lack of proven, large-scale, and financially sustainable strategies and business models.
Uncertainties regarding the long-term impacts of alternative water sources (e.g., reclaimed water) on soil health, crop quality, food safety (especially emerging contaminants), and freshwater ecosystems hinder farmer and consumer acceptance.
The uptake of circular water management in agriculture is hampered by complex societal perceptions, behavioural inertia among farmers, and inadequate or fragmented regulatory frameworks and incentive schemes at various governance levels.
Primary end-users of circular water management solutions, directly benefiting from increased water availability, resilience to scarcity, and improved sustainability practices.
Public and private bodies responsible for water resource management, benefiting from data, technologies, and policy recommendations for sustainable water allocation and quality.
Beneficiaries of enhanced food safety, quality, and security resulting from sustainable agricultural practices and increased confidence in food produced using alternative water sources.
Decision-makers at regional, national, and EU levels who will use project recommendations to develop and implement supportive policies and incentives for circular water management.
Beneficiaries of enhanced knowledge, data, and methodologies related to circular water management, environmental impact assessment, and socio-economic modelling in agriculture.
Companies developing and offering innovative water treatment, monitoring, and irrigation technologies, benefiting from testing, validation, and market uptake opportunities.
To develop, test, and demonstrate diverse strategies and technologies for circular water management, utilizing alternative water sources for irrigation and other agricultural uses in real-life, large-scale contexts across the EU and Associated Countries, covering the entire agricultural water cycle (@SC1).
To identify, test, and validate innovative business models and financial mechanisms that ensure the long-term economic sustainability and viability of adopting alternative water sources in agriculture, considering varied pedo-climatic and socio-economic conditions (@SC2).
To rigorously evaluate the long-term impacts of alternative water sources on soil health, crop productivity and quality, food and feed safety (especially for fresh produce), and freshwater ecosystems, while developing and testing cost-efficient monitoring and contaminant removal techniques, particularly for emerging contaminants (@SC3, @SC4).
To identify and overcome societal, behavioural, and regulatory challenges hindering the widespread uptake of alternative water sources in agriculture, and to develop evidence-based recommendations for improved incentives and policies at regional, national, and European levels to reduce adoption barriers (@SC5, @SC6).
To significantly enhance the dissemination of existing and newly generated knowledge, connect relevant actors, policies, and instruments, and provide comprehensive training, advice, and demonstration activities for farmers and practitioners to accelerate the adoption of circular water management solutions (@SC7).
The project will contribute to the EU's strategic autonomy by ensuring a more secure and safe food supply through sustainable and circular water management practices in agriculture, aligning with a One Health approach (@EI1).
Farmers and agricultural actors will be enabled to manage more sustainable, efficient, and profitable farming systems through the widespread adoption of circular water management, enhancing climate-resilience and contributing to climate-neutrality (@EI2).
Sustainable and resource-efficient farming practices, particularly circular water management, will contribute to the health of soil, surface, and groundwaters, minimizing pollution and protecting biodiversity (@EI3).
The project will identify and address existing financial, social, and economic barriers, designing effective leverages to steer a just transition towards overall sustainable, healthy, and inclusive food systems, with co-benefits for climate adaptation and circularity (@EI5).