AGREEMAR Deliverable 5.1: Local MAR agreements

Abstract

Water scarcity and the increasing demand for freshwater resources have heightened the importance of sustainable water management strategies. Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) emerges as a critical solution, offering benefits such as groundwater stabilization, improved water quality, and enhanced drought resilience. However, the successful implementation of MAR faces challenges, including stakeholder coordination, regulatory complexities, and public mistrust. The AGREEMAR project addresses these issues by developing adaptive and participatory Local MAR Agreements (LMA) tailored to the Mediterranean region. These agreements aim to ensure fair benefit-sharing, transparency, and long-term sustainability by involving diverse stakeholders in the co-creation process. This deliverable outlines the methodology for drafting LMA, incorporating lessons learned from the demonstration sites in Cyprus, Tunisia, Portugal, and Spain. It includes a step-by-step guide for evaluating MAR governance, identifying key measures for improvement, and formulating agreements that balance technical, legal, environmental, and socio-economic considerations. The four case studies illustrate the flexibility and effectiveness of LMA in addressing local challenges while fostering collaboration and trust among stakeholders. This document also serves as a practical toolkit for advancing MAR governance, promoting sustainable water management, and supporting the broader adoption of MAR practices across the Mediterranean region.