The SUBGEO project (SUBmarine groundwater discharge analysis with an innovative and integrated GEOphysical approach) is a two-years research project funded uby the Italian Ministry of University and Research.
Objective:
SUBGEO aims to develop and validate an innovative, integrated geophysical strategy to non-invasively characterize coastal aquifers and submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) zones. It focuses on enhancing sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change and increasing freshwater demand.
Key Components:
Research Context:
Coastal aquifers are critical but vulnerable water resources.
Two key processes in coastal zones: inward saline intrusion and outward submarine groundwater discharge.
SGD is underexplored but could be a valuable water source.
Geophysical Strategy:
A two-level approach will be exploited:
Level I: Rapid aerial and terrestrial electromagnetic surveys (UAV-based) for broad reconnaissance.
Level II: High-resolution land-to-sea integrated electrical and electromagnetic surveys to model subsurface hydrogeological conditions.
Focus on minimizing data gaps at the shoreline transition zone.
Study Areas:
The Apulia region, Italy, known for extensive coastal aquifers and SGD activity.
Two test sites: one porous (marine terrace sediments) and one karstic (limestone).
Methodology:
Literature review and needs assessment.
Development of analogue models in laboratory settings.
Field validation in test sites.
Use of advanced data fusion techniques and AI-based analyses.
Expected Outcomes:
Enhanced hydrogeophysical models.
Tools for identifying and exploiting freshwater SGD.
Guidelines for efficient desalination plant placement using low-salinity SGD inputs.
Dissemination via scientific publications, open data, and stakeholder outreach.
Partners:
University of Bari (UNIBA) – Lead research unit focused on fieldwork and modeling.
National Research Council (CNR) – Supporting unit with expertise in laboratory simulations and hydrogeology.
Impact:
Scientific: Novel methodologies and data integration strategies for coastal aquifers.
Socio-Economic: Cost-effective freshwater supply solutions and enhanced sustainability.
Environmental: Improved resilience against water scarcity and climate change.
Technological: Innovations in drone-based geophysics and non-invasive survey methods.