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Horizon Europe
1 phase
Strategic Analysis
This call seeks to develop and implement Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) techniques in rural European contexts to enhance water resilience in agriculture, combat climate change impacts, and prevent water pollution. A winning proposal will integrate advanced scientific and technological solutions with robust socio-economic models and governance frameworks, ensuring practical applicability and broad adoption by farmers and land managers across diverse EU regions.
TRL 4 → 5
extend, improve and customize managed aquifer recharge (MAR) techniques at farm, basin and catchment level, covering most representative EU agricultural contexts in view of climate change;
develop a methodology to help assessing the most suitable location or situations to implement these MAR techniques and validate with a representative sample of case-study regions, taking into account for the differential impact of climate change;
develop a user-friendly monitoring, reporting and verification system (MRV) to follow the impact on ground water quality and quantity, as well as associated water ecosystems and dependent terrestrial ecosystems;
evaluate the potential impact and sustainability of managed aquifer recharge techniques in rural areas, including on the groundwater ecosystems, associated water ecosystems and dependent terrestrial ecosystems, and drinking water from a multi-objective approach, and its integration with evidence-based engineered and Nature-based Solutions to reduce runoff, soil erosion and improve landscape climatic resilience;
calculate the cost-benefits of MAR techniques and propose different business models for the compensation or remuneration of individual farmers or land managers (payments schemes, nature, carbon or water credits, …) for hosting MAR initiatives;
demonstrate the feasibility of these business models at local level (catchment, river basin, ...) by at least 2 case studies in different pedoclimatic zones and evaluate the possible barriers for adoption by farmers or land managers;
provide a framework of governance models that could fit the different local socio-economic, regulatory and pedo-climatic conditions.
farmers have access to water supply from managed aquifer recharge systems and to appropriate business models to cope with longer and more intense periods of water scarcity due to climate change, while preserving the good status of ground water bodies;
water ecosystems are healthier and more resilient to climate change, and water related ecosystem services are protected and strengthened, while water resilience of farming systems is increased;
policy makers are provided with improved insights on mechanisms and instruments to improve the water resilience of the agricultural sector to cope with climate change effects.
Advancing scientific understanding and innovative solutions for identifying, preventing and mitigating pollution aim to effectively protect human health and safeguard the environment, preserving cleaner water and seas, healthier air and soil, and resilient forests.
Innovative circular bio-based systems and biotechnologies are developed and made available to all stakeholders to progress towards the clean environment and zero-pollution ambition.
Farmers and other actors in the food chain are empowered to make informed decisions and to apply novel strategies to prevent, reduce and remediate pollution from agriculture and the food system, contributing to the zero-pollution ambition.
Effective solutions to remediate and decontaminate aquatic pollution are developed, made available and implemented contributing to reducing pollution to levels no longer considered harmful to the environment.
EU water legislation
highThis refers to a comprehensive body of EU law governing water management, primarily including the Water Framework Directive (WFD), the Groundwater Directive, the Environmental Quality Standards Directive, and the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. It aims to achieve good ecological and chemical status for all EU waters, prevent pollution, and ensure sustainable water use.
Proposals must demonstrate strong alignment with the objectives of EU water legislation, particularly the Water Framework Directive and Groundwater Directive. This includes showing how managed aquifer recharge (MAR) techniques contribute to achieving good quantitative and chemical status of groundwater bodies, prevent their deterioration, and support sustainable water resource management in rural areas. Compliance with environmental quality standards and integrated river basin management principles should be evident.
European Water Resilience Strategy
highThe Strategy aims to improve water resilience, including through ecosystem restoration and pollution reduction. The project could address freshwater species decline and propose solutions for water quality and quantity.
Focus on freshwater biodiversity and the role of water management in species decline. Proposals should highlight how their solutions improve water resilience and ecosystem health.
EU Climate Adaptation Strategy
highThe strategy aims to make the EU climate-resilient by 2050, with a focus on nature-based solutions and ecosystem-based adaptation. The project must demonstrate how its solutions enhance climate resilience for species and ecosystems.
Clear linkage between biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation, particularly through nature-based solutions. Proposals should highlight how their interventions improve ecosystem resilience to climate change.
Industrial and Livestock Rearing Emissions Directive
mediumThis directive (primarily the Industrial Emissions Directive, IED, 2010/75/EU, and its proposed revision) aims to prevent and control pollution from large industrial installations and intensive livestock rearing. It requires permits based on Best Available Techniques (BAT) to minimize emissions to air, water, and soil, promoting a high level of environmental protection.
Proposals should consider how managed aquifer recharge (MAR) techniques could contribute to mitigating water pollution originating from intensive livestock rearing or other rural industrial activities, thereby supporting the objectives of this directive. This could involve using MAR to treat runoff, manage nutrient loads, or improve water quality impacted by such emissions, demonstrating how MAR contributes to cleaner water resources in rural areas.
Strategic Dialogue on EU Agriculture
mediumThe Strategic Dialogue on EU Agriculture, launched by the European Commission, aims to foster a broad discussion on the future of farming in the EU. It brings together farmers, agri-food businesses, NGOs, and experts to address challenges such as climate change, environmental sustainability, food security, and fair income for farmers, seeking to shape a long-term vision for a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
Proposals should demonstrate how their bioremediation solutions can support sustainable agricultural practices in conflict-affected areas, particularly in restoring contaminated agricultural land. This could involve methods that enable the safe return of land to food production, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to the long-term resilience and sustainability of the agricultural sector in Ukraine, aligning with the broader goals of the dialogue.
Vision for EU Agriculture and Food
mediumThe "Vision for EU Agriculture and Food" refers to the long-term strategic direction for the sector, often articulated through initiatives like the Farm to Fork Strategy and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). It aims for a fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly food system, promoting sustainable farming practices, food security, biodiversity protection, and rural vitality, while ensuring economic viability for farmers.
Proposals should illustrate how their bioremediation efforts contribute to the long-term vision for sustainable agriculture and food systems, especially in the context of restoring land for food production in Ukraine. This includes demonstrating benefits for soil health, biodiversity, food safety, and the overall resilience of the agri-food chain, aligning with the principles of ecological transition and sustainable resource management.
EU Clean Industrial Deal
lowDirectly referenced in the call title, emphasizing clean and circular industrial practices. Proposals must show how urban manufacturing contributes to the Deal’s goals (e.g., decarbonization, resource efficiency).
Strong alignment with Clean Industrial Deal priorities, including measurable outcomes for industrial decarbonization and circularity.
European Chemicals Industry Action Plan
lowTargets safe and sustainable chemicals management. Relevant for proposals addressing hazardous substances in circular manufacturing.
If applicable, inclusion of safe chemical management practices in circular processes.
Ambient Air Quality Directive
lowThe Ambient Air Quality Directives (e.g., 2008/50/EC) set limits for pollutants in ambient air to protect human health and the environment. They require Member States to monitor air quality, assess compliance, and develop air quality plans when limits are exceeded, aiming to improve air quality across the EU.
Proposals should demonstrate, if applicable, any indirect contributions of managed aquifer recharge techniques to improving air quality, for instance, by supporting sustainable land management practices that reduce dust or emissions from agricultural activities. A clear and well-justified link to air quality objectives would be expected, though direct relevance is likely limited.
Marine Strategy Framework Directive
lowThe Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD, 2008/56/EC) aims to achieve Good Environmental Status (GES) of the EU's marine waters by 2020 and protect the marine environment. It requires Member States to develop strategies to protect and restore marine ecosystems, prevent pollution, and ensure sustainable use of marine resources.
Proposals should demonstrate, if applicable, how managed aquifer recharge (MAR) techniques, particularly in coastal rural areas, could indirectly contribute to the objectives of the MSFD. This could involve improving the quality and quantity of freshwater flows to coastal and marine environments, thereby reducing land-based pollution or mitigating saltwater intrusion that impacts coastal ecosystems. Any link should be clearly articulated and justified.
EU strategy for outermost regions
lowThe strategy aims to support the sustainable development of EU outermost regions, which often host unique biodiversity. The project could address species decline in these regions and propose tailored solutions.
Focus on biodiversity in outermost regions, if applicable. Proposals should demonstrate how their solutions address the specific challenges of these regions.
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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 following additional eligibility criteria apply: The proposals must apply the multi-actor approach. See definition of the multi-actor approach in this work programme part.
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.
Eligible costs will take the form of a lump sum as defined in the Decision of 7 July 2021 authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2021-2027) – and in actions under the Research and Training Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community (2021-2025) [[This decision is available on the Funding and Tenders Portal, in the reference documents section for Horizon Europe, under ‘Simplified costs decisions’ or through this link: https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/guidance/ls-decision_he_en.pdf]].
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)
Call-specific instructions
Guidance: "Lump sums - what do I need to know?"
HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 1. General Introduction
HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 15. General Annexes
HE Framework Programme 2021/695
HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764
EU Financial Regulation 2024/2509
Decision authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme
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 highly prioritize proposals demonstrating a strong multi-actor approach, actively involving farmers and local stakeholders in the co-creation and validation of MAR techniques and associated business models. Emphasis will be placed on the adaptability of proposed solutions to various pedoclimatic conditions, the robustness of monitoring and impact assessment systems, and the clear articulation of how the project will contribute to groundwater quality, ecosystem health, and policy development for climate change adaptation in the agricultural sector.
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.
This call has an additional eligibility rule: proposals must apply the multi-actor approach. This is not a suggestion for a higher score, but a formal gatekeeper condition. A proposal that fails to demonstrate genuine co-creation with end-users like farmers and land managers from the outset will be rejected before evaluation begins.
Source: Eligibility
This project is funded as a lump sum, meaning payments are tied to the completion of work packages, not cost reporting. Your proposal's architecture must be built around clear, verifiable milestones and deliverables. You must explicitly define in the proposal how the completion of each task will be assessed and verified by the Project Officer.
Source: Eligibility
Evaluators are explicitly instructed to prioritize proposals that demonstrate the active involvement of farmers and local stakeholders in the co-creation and validation of solutions. Merely including them as a target group is insufficient. Your methodology must show how these actors will shape the project's research, business models, and outcomes from start to finish.
Source: Evaluation criteria (pre-award)
A winning proposal cannot focus solely on the technical aspects of MAR. The scope mandates a holistic approach covering methodology, monitoring (MRV), impact evaluation, business models, and governance frameworks. Your consortium must possess and demonstrate credible expertise across all seven specified activities to be considered fully responsive to the call.
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.
Rural areas, particularly agricultural regions, face escalating water scarcity and declining groundwater quality due to climate change, over-extraction, and agricultural pollution, threatening food security and ecosystem health.
Farmers and land managers lack access to effective, adaptable, and economically attractive solutions like Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) that can sustainably address water challenges while providing clear incentives for adoption.
There is a critical need for robust monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems to assess the true impact of water management interventions, alongside clear governance models to facilitate their widespread and sustainable implementation.
Primary beneficiaries who will implement and benefit from MAR techniques and associated business models to enhance water security and resilience on their land.
Organizations responsible for water supply, quality, and management, who will gain improved tools and strategies for sustainable water resource management.
Decision-makers who will receive evidence-based insights and governance models to develop and implement effective water and agricultural policies.
Organizations focused on environmental protection and ecosystem health, benefiting from improved water quality and ecosystem resilience.
Researchers and academics who will benefit from advanced scientific understanding, methodologies, and data related to MAR techniques and their environmental, social, and economic impacts.
Organisations providing guidance and support to farmers, who will be equipped with new knowledge and tools to advise on MAR implementation.
To extend, improve, and customize MAR techniques suitable for diverse EU agricultural contexts, from farm to catchment level, specifically addressing the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity. This includes developing a robust methodology for assessing optimal MAR implementation locations.
To develop user-friendly MRV systems for tracking the impact of MAR on groundwater quality and quantity, associated water ecosystems, dependent terrestrial ecosystems, and drinking water. This objective also includes evaluating the multi-objective potential and sustainability of MAR techniques and their integration with other engineered and Nature-based Solutions.
To calculate the cost-benefits of MAR techniques and propose innovative business models (e.g., payment schemes, carbon/water credits) for compensating farmers and land managers. This objective also entails demonstrating the feasibility of these models through at least two case studies in different pedoclimatic zones and providing a framework for adaptable governance models.
To ensure farmers gain access to reliable water supplies from MAR systems and viable business models, enabling them to cope with prolonged water scarcity while preserving the good status of groundwater bodies. This also aims to foster healthier and more resilient water ecosystems, strengthening water-related ecosystem services.
To equip policymakers with enhanced insights into effective mechanisms and instruments for improving the water resilience of the agricultural sector, thereby enabling them to better cope with the adverse effects of climate change.
The project will significantly advance the scientific understanding of MAR techniques, their applicability across diverse EU contexts, and their multi-objective impacts on water resources and ecosystems. This includes developing robust methodologies and MRV systems.
Implementation of advanced MAR techniques will lead to measurable improvements in groundwater quality and increased water availability, directly contributing to the zero-pollution ambition and water resilience.
By developing and demonstrating user-friendly, cost-effective MAR techniques and viable business models, the project will facilitate their widespread adoption by farmers and land managers, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
The project will create and validate innovative business models, such as payment schemes or water credits, to compensate or remunerate farmers for hosting MAR initiatives, ensuring their economic viability and promoting long-term sustainability.
Through effective MAR implementation, farming systems will become more resilient to climate change-induced water scarcity, while associated water and dependent terrestrial ecosystems will be healthier and better protected from pollution.
The project will provide policymakers with robust evidence, insights, and governance frameworks to develop and implement effective strategies for improving the water resilience of the agricultural sector in the face of climate change.