We must prove that new irrigation solutions work well and can be used in other places.
The project will test these solutions in Spain and Greece on similar crops over two growing seasons. Solution providers have 18 months to set up their demos. Throughout the project, there will be soil and crop checks, along with environmental, social, and health impact assessments to see what works, including using water that isn’t as clean as freshwater.
Farmers often hesitate to change methods or try new technology.
Because drought is a serious problem, RAINS will show how these new solutions improve soil health, use water better, and prepare farms for climate change. The project will prove the environmental and financial benefits for farmers, involving them throughout the process so they can see the advantages for themselves.
For these solutions to be adopted, farmers, rules, and market opportunities must be considered.
RAINS will involve farmers and other stakeholders from the start to identify barriers and help co-create these innovations. The project will also study market opportunities, review laws and regulations, and evaluate the social and economic effects of these solutions to help them enter the market smoothly.
Proving the safety and effectiveness of these solutions takes a lot of testing, which is time-consuming.
The project will conduct over 20 soil health and toxicity tests, following international safety standards, to ensure the solutions don’t harm plants, soil life, or the environment. These tests will happen early in the project and continue throughout to monitor performance and safety according to EU and national rules.
We test smarter irrigation methods using reclaimed water and organic materials that hold moisture in the soil. These solutions aim to reduce how much water farms need while keeping crops healthy and soils safe.
We combine eco-friendly fertilisers—like those made from algae or animal by-products—with smart irrigation systems. This method, known as fertigation, helps deliver nutrients directly through water, improving efficiency and reducing waste.
RAINS uses natural tools like compost-based materials and plant fibre nets to strengthen soil, prevent erosion, and help it store more water. This supports biodiversity and helps farms cope with droughts and floods.
We test digital tools that help farmers know exactly when and how much to irrigate or fertilise. These systems will also feed into larger models to help predict water needs in regions like Spain and Greece.
From the start, we involve farmers, policymakers, and experts to test solutions, improve designs, and shape supportive rules. We’re also building a roadmap to bring these solutions to market safely and successfully.