The goal of EffluentFit4Food is to increase the availability of quality irrigation water for agriculture and horticulture in times of drought and to prevent the harmful effects of too much groundwater abstraction for crops and nature.
In addition to groundwater, effluent from sewage treatment can be made well suited as a source for irrigation. Especially in very dry periods, it is necessary to be able to supplement the limited availability of groundwater and thereby reduce crop damage due to drought, while guaranteeing food safety.
To realize this, the final quality of irrigation water obtained from effluent is important, especially for food safety.
In this project, the partners will investigate the extent to which contaminants from the effluent end up in and on the crop (fruits and vegetables), what the associated health risks are, and what measures (water treatment, monitoring) are needed to minimize these risks.
Minimum quality requirements
Since May 25, 2020, European regulations are in force that describe the minimum quality requirements of reused water for agricultural purposes. However, when it is suspected that this water also contains other components that may affect public health, an additional risk inventory is required.
With this project, the partners are contributing to increased reuse of water and combating the effects of drought.
The consortium consists of knowledge institutions, water boards, agricultural interest groups and technology suppliers.
