ClimEx-PE Newsletter #1

NEWSLETTER Issue #1 Dear Readers, Welcome to the first issue of the ClimEx-PE Project newsletter! We are excited to bring you the latest updates on our project results, activities and events. Our goal is to keep you informed and engaged with the progress and achievements of the ClimEx-PE initiative. We hope you find this newsletter both informative and inspiring. Climate Extremes buffering through groundwater flow-based Managed Aquifer Recharge and Public Engagement “The ClimEx-PE project, launched on April 1st, 2024, is dedicated to mitigating extreme climatic events and ensuring a sustainable water supply for both humanity and ecosystems. By integrating groundwater flow system evaluation, local scale Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) techniques, and co-creative public engagement, we aim to develop a new and upscaled Nature-based MAR (NaBa-MAR®) approach. This approach is designed to address regional scale challenges posed by extreme hydroclimatic events, promoting resilience and sustainability.” So, without further ado, let’s dive into the details of this issue! 2 The project received funding from the European Commission and Ministry of Culture and Innovation of Hungary from National Research, Development and Innovation Fund; the Irish Enviromental Protection Agency; the Dutch Research Council and the Agencia Española de Investigación in the frame of the collaborative international consortium ClimEx-PE financed under the 2022 Joint call of the European Partnership 101060874 — Water4All. Consortium We are pleased to introduce the esteemed institutions that form our consortium. Each brings unique expertise and dedication to advancing our project goals. Consortium leader Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) University of Barcelona (UB) University of Utrecht (UU) Trinity College Dublin (TCD) University of Zaragoza (UNIZAR) Highlights from the Past 6 Months International kick-off meeting The ClimEx-PE project was introduced at the kick-off meeting held by the Spanish State Research Agency (AEI) on April 23-24, 2024, in Madrid. Representatives from 27 winning projects attended the event. Judit Mádl-Szőnyi, the scientific coordinator, presented the three-year plan, which focuses on integrating groundwater flow systems with Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) and public engagement to combat climate extremes. The meeting facilitated networking and collaboration opportunities among researchers, with discussions on data management, ethical issues, and upcoming Horizon Europe calls. The event concluded with a summary of key insights and a call for successful project implementation. 3 The project received funding from the European Commission and Ministry of Culture and Innovation of Hungary from National Research, Development and Innovation Fund; the Irish Enviromental Protection Agency; the Dutch Research Council and the Agencia Española de Investigación in the frame of the collaborative international consortium ClimEx-PE financed under the 2022 Joint call of the European Partnership 101060874 — Water4All. Field Visit to La Muga Basin, Spain On April 25, 2024, researchers from the ClimExPE project visited the La Muga Basin in Spain, one of the key study sites in the project. Organized by the University of Barcelona. The visit focused on understanding the area’s geological, hydrogeological, meteorological, and geographical conditions, and addressing water scarcity issues. Researchers traced the water path from a wastewater treatment plant to the wetland area and discussed the adaptation of the project’s concept to the La Muga basin. Field Visit to Shanragh/Bagenalstown, Ireland Following the research in Spain, two members (Judit Mádl-Szőnyi and Ildikó Erhardt) of ELTE team visited the Irish study site, the Shanragh/Bagenalstown groundwater basin on June 24, 2024. Organized by Patrick Morrisey from Trinity College Dublin, the visit included detailed studies of the area’s geological and hydrogeological features. The team observed wells and springs, noting the challenges and potential for water exploration despite climate change. Discussions focused on applying the NaBaMAR® concept to the Irish context, enhancing the project’s collaborative efforts. Project launch workshop in Budapest, Hungary The ClimEx-PE project held an impactful workshop in Budapest from July 2nd to 4th, 2024. Partners from the University of Barcelona, University of Utrecht, University of Zaragoza, Trinity College Dublin, and Eötvös Loránd University gathered to discuss project tasks, clarify responsibilities, and strengthen collaboration. The workshop facilitated a shared understanding and effective allocation of tasks, fostering a collaborative framework for communication and coordination among participants. A field trip to the Duna-Tisza Interfluve, the Hungarian study site, provided valuable insights into regional groundwater flow systems. Visits to sand dunes, a dried lake, and a saline lake enhanced understanding of the NaBa-MAR concept and informed future project activities. Overall, the workshop was a pivotal moment, aligning partners and setting the stage for successful collaboration throughout the ClimEx-PE project. 4 The project received funding from the European Commission and Ministry of Culture and Innovation of Hungary from National Research, Development and Innovation Fund; the Irish Enviromental Protection Agency; the Dutch Research Council and the Agencia Española de Investigación in the frame of the collaborative international consortium ClimEx-PE financed under the 2022 Joint call of the European Partnership 101060874 — Water4All. Group photo from the workshop Dissemination and communication activities European Urban Resilience Forum (EURESFO) - Valencia, June 26-28, 2024 Valencia, hosted the European Urban Resilience Forum, bringing together experts, innovators, and policymakers to explore climate resilience solutions. Soma Oláh from ELTE attended to promote the Nature-based Managed Aquifer Recharge (NaBa-MAR®) concept. The forum featured diverse discussions on urban blue-green infrastructure, innovative presentations, impactful workshops, and a field trip. The NaBa-MAR® concept captivated potential users, including municipalities and water sector professionals. HOPE Sustainability Conference - Veszprém, July 18, 2024 The University of Pannonia hosted the second HOPE Sustainability Conference, emphasizing sustainability and environmental stewardship. Judit Mádl-Szőnyi presented the ClimEx-PE project’s research on nature-based solutions, focusing on groundwater as a climate buffer and the NaBa-MAR® concept, which aims to restore ecosystems affected by droughts. 5 The project received funding from the European Commission and Ministry of Culture and Innovation of Hungary from National Research, Development and Innovation Fund; the Irish Enviromental Protection Agency; the Dutch Research Council and the Agencia Española de Investigación in the frame of the collaborative international consortium ClimEx-PE financed under the 2022 Joint call of the European Partnership 101060874 — Water4All. 5th Sustainable World 2024 Conference - Budapest, September 4, 2024 This conference gathered policymakers, practitioners, ESG managers, and business leaders to discuss sustainability and green renewal. The Green Agriculture and Water Security session featured Szilvia Simon from ELTE, who presented the NaBa-MAR® method as a solution for water scarcity management. This innovative approach integrates surface and subsurface methods for effective water management. Researchers’ Night 2024, Hungary On September 27, 2024, the ClimEx-PE project proudly participated in Researchers’ Night in Hungary, showcasing four engaging events that underscored our dedication to climate research and education. The program successfully raised awareness and educated the public about climate issues, with attendees from various regions. We extend our gratitude to all speakers and demonstrators for their invaluable contributions. Interviews with our researchers about the project Katrin Merfeld and Ádám Tóth (UU): Water4all: enhancing engagement for groundwater solutions Judit Mádl-Szőnyi (ELTE), Jose F. Garcia (UB), Katrin Merfeld (UU): Could Groundwater Management Be the Sustainable Solution for Addressing Extreme Hydrological Events? Stay connected with us As we wrap up our first newsletter, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for your interest and support in our project. We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to sharing more updates with you. We will be back with our next newsletter in six months. In the meantime, stay connected and follow our progress through the communication channels provided in this newsletter. Thank you for being a part of the ClimEx-PE project!