HORIZON‑CL6‑2026‑01‑ZEROPOLLUTION‑03 Looking for consortium – Expertise in water treatment, reuse and natural-based solutions

BETA Technological Center (https://betatechcenter.com/) is looking to join a consortium preparing a proposal for HORIZON‑CL6‑2026‑01‑ZEROPOLLUTION‑03: Developing managed aquifer recharge techniques (MAR) in a rural context. BETA brings together two complementary research units with strong expertise relevant to this topic. The Environmental Technologies & Circular Bioeconomy Unit works on the design, development and optimisation of treatment and recovery processes for solid, liquid and gaseous flows with a strong agri‑environmental focus. This unit applies integrated biorefinery strategies and circular bioeconomy models to maximise resource recovery and minimise environmental impact. Its experience with wastewater treatment, advanced membrane and bioprocess technologies, and reclaimed water reuse positions it to contribute to the hydrochemical and treatment aspects of MAR systems, particularly where water quality management, contaminant removal, nutrient balance and reuse are critical. The Applied Ecology & Global Change Unit specialises in understanding the functioning of aquatic ecosystems, including how anthropogenic pollutants and global change drivers affect ecological processes. This expertise underpins the development of nature‑based solutions, ecological risk assessment and monitoring frameworks required for the effective implementation and evaluation of MAR techniques in rural landscapes. The unit also works within the One Health framework—recognising linkages between ecosystem, animal and human health—providing a holistic approach to assessing the ecological outcomes of MAR measures and safeguarding freshwater ecosystem services. Projects related to this area of expertise include RE2AQUA, AccelWater, DesNitraqua, LIFE BIODAPH2O.

Importantly, BETA’s involvement is supported by engagement from local authorities in Vic and the Catalan Water Partnership, which are keen to collaborate on practical demonstrations, governance considerations, and stakeholder uptake of innovative water management techniques. This collaborative ecosystem strengthens the potential to design MAR systems that are technically sound, socially acceptable and suited to rural governance frameworks. For more detailed information, take a look at the following webpages: Environmental Technologies & Circular Bioeconomy and Applied Ecology & Global Change