DEMETRA-DSS: New Technologies for the Protection of Water from Nitrate Pollution of Agricultural Origin

Commission Directive 91/676/EC introduced water protection from nitrates from agri- cultural sources. The Puglia Region approved its 'Nitrate Action Plan' (NAP) in 2013, establishing nitrate-vulnerable zones (NVZs), with restrictions on agronomic management and administrative obligations based on territorial studies. However, those aims require appropriate feedback through monitoring activities to identify the real sources of nitrate contamination. The DEMETRA-DSS project arises from a synergy between ICT companies, research institutes and agricultural organiza- tions. The project aims at supporting local institutions in territorial monitoring and management of contamination sources and introduces innovations capable of mitigating the agronomic impact on the territory.