Project objectives
The aim of the Cirriwater project is to promote the circular economy in greenhouse cultivation. When considering greenhouse irrigation systems, both water and nutrients should be used more efficiently and in lower quantities.
Agriculture and greenhouse production consume large amounts of water, and valuable nutrients are lost with excess irrigation runoff. The sector needs practical, cost-effective and easy-to-use solutions for water and nutrient recycling. Cirriwater promotes the circular economy in greenhouse cultivation by improving irrigation recirculation, thereby reducing the use of both water and nutrients.
Contact
Senior Researcher
Riika Mäkinen
tel. 044 710 3064
riika.makinen@samk.fi
Projects activities
- Sharing information and influencing attitudes: Information will be collected on current irrigation water recycling practices, legislative and technical barriers, and stakeholders’ readiness to improve recycling efficiency. Awareness among growers and experts will be increased, encouraging them to share their experiences and expertise. Particular attention will be given to engaging SMEs and helping them recognise water recycling as a beneficial and valuable part of their operations.
- Water circulation modelling and pilot planning: Scalable and low-threshold solutions for more efficient recirculation of excess irrigation water and nutrients will be modelled for greenhouses of different sizes. Growers will be actively involved in the co-development process, strengthening their confidence in the profitability and practical benefits of the proposed solutions.
- Pilot implementation and utilisation of results: The effectiveness, suitability and benefits of improved recycling solutions will be demonstrated in real greenhouse environments. Pilot activities will be carried out in all three partner countries: Latvia, Finland and Estonia. The pilot projects will help motivate stakeholders and decision-makers to support and adopt new circular economy solutions. Successful pilots will encourage investment and translate technical results into clear and accessible success stories.
- Dissemination of results and communication: The piloted solutions and successful outcomes will be showcased through trade fairs, workshops, events, social media and information campaigns, among other channels, to promote wider adoption and replication of the solutions.
Partners
