The ENEO3 project aims to understand, quantify, and enhance the natural capacity of aquatic ecosystems to mitigate diffuse nitrate pollution from agricultural sources through the recovery of natural ecological functions. The project focuses on the restoration of wetlands, riverine areas, and other aquatic ecosystems capable of retaining and removing nitrates before they reach aquifers and watercourses.
By studying the relationship between rivers, aquifers, and terrestrial environments, ENEO3 examines how natural self-purification processes can help improve water quality. The project focuses on denitrification, a key biogeochemical process that converts nitrates into nitrogen gas, thereby reducing water pollution caused by excess nitrogen.
For this study, 25 representative sites across Catalonia with significant nitrate pollution impacts have been selected, where various aquatic ecosystems are being studied. In these environments, researchers analyze nitrogen sources, flow regimes, and the natural capacity of the environment to remove nitrate.
The project is the result of collaboration between CEAB-CSIC, which contributes scientific expertise in aquatic ecology and ecosystem restoration; the ANDRENA Foundation, dedicated to the conservation and restoration of freshwater ecosystems; ICRA (Catalan Institute for Water Research), specialized in water quality and management research; and MN Consultors, experts in conservation science and environmental restoration. The project is funded by the Catalan Water Agency (ACA) and combines scientific expertise with land management.
The results of ENEO3 will support the integration of nature-based strategies into future aquatic ecosystem restoration and conservation projects, contributing to more sustainable and resilient water quality management.
