The Axarquía Living Lab, located in Algarrobo, Málaga, Spain, is a Water-Oriented Living Lab (WOLL) dedicated to promoting sustainable water management in agriculture. Established in 2016 under the RichWater Project (funded by Horizon 2020), the lab functions as a real-life testing ground for innovative approaches to reclaimed water use, smart irrigation systems, and circular water solutions. Its work addresses the acute water scarcity challenges that affect the region, positioning the lab as a critical hub for sustainable development.
The lab operates through active collaboration with a diverse network of stakeholders, including municipalities, irrigation communities, agricultural cooperatives (such as TROPs), AXARAGUA, the Spanish Association of Tropical Crops, and the Axarquía Rural Action Group. Together, these partners contribute to a robust ecosystem that supports experimental trials, facilitates access to cutting-edge facilities, and enables the co-development of water and irrigation technologies. This collaborative model allows researchers, innovators, and practitioners to test and validate solutions in a practical, real-world environment.
The value creation driven by the Axarquía Living Lab spans economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Economically, it supports research and development initiatives that bolster innovation and enhance the resilience of local farmers. Environmentally, it plays a pivotal role in promoting water conservation and aiding ecosystem restoration. Socially, it contributes to sustainable agricultural practices and reinforces the stability and well-being of the local community.
Fully aligned with key EU policies—including the European Green Deal, the Circular Economy Action Plan, and Regulation 2020/741 on water reuse—the lab is actively involved in projects such as BONEX, P2GREEN, NOVAFERT and Axarquía Sostenible. These initiatives collectively drive forward-thinking solutions, positioning the Axarquía Living Lab as a leading model for sustainable agriculture in Europe.
