Objectives

The project aims to:

• Monitor hydrological, sedimentary, and ecological dynamics of the Medjerda Delta;

• Improve scientific understanding of delta and lagoon ecosystems;

• Restore degraded coastal and freshwater habitats;

• Assess and mitigate climate change impacts;

• Support sustainable water and natural resource management;

• Provide scientific evidence for environmental policies;

• Strengthen ecosystem resilience through innovative approaches.

Key Activities

Environmental Monitoring

Deployment of continuous monitoring systems to collect real-time hydrological, sedimentological, and ecological data.

Innovative Technologies

Use of advanced tools and methodologies, including:

• Automated monitoring stations;

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS);

• Remote sensing technologies;

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) for environmental modeling and forecasting.

Ecosystem Restoration

Implementation of nature-based solutions to restore ecological functions, improve biodiversity, and enhance ecosystem stability.

Scientific Research

Studies focusing on:

• Sediment transport processes;

• Hydrodynamic behavior of delta systems;

• Lagoon and coastal ecosystem interactions;

• Climate change vulnerability and adaptation.

Stakeholder Engagement

Active involvement of local communities, fishermen, researchers, and institutional actors in environmental protection and sustainable development initiatives.

Study Area

The project focuses on the Medjerda Delta, the largest river delta in Tunisia, and the Ghar El Melh Lagoon, a highly valuable coastal ecosystem recognized for its ecological and socio-economic importance.

These areas provide essential ecosystem services, including fisheries resources, biodiversity support, flood regulation, and coastal protection.

Collaboration

The DALIA-MEDECO-RESTOR Project is implemented through a strong national and international collaboration involving:

• National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies (INSTM);

• General Directorate of Water Resources (DGRE);

• Coastal Protection and Planning Agency (APAL);

• National Agency for Environmental Protection (ANPE);

• Ghar El Melh Vocational Training Center for Fisheries;

• Universities and academic research institutions;

• Local associations and civil society organizations;

• International scientific partners and experts.

This multi-stakeholder collaboration ensures a multidisciplinary approach that integrates scientific research, technical expertise, public policy, and community engagement.

Expected Outcomes

• Strengthened environmental monitoring systems;

• Improved understanding of deltaic and lagoon processes;

• Restoration of degraded ecosystems;

• Development of predictive environmental models;

• Support for sustainable water management policies;

• Increased awareness and stakeholder participation;

• Enhanced resilience to climate change impacts.

Vision

The project aims to position the Medjerda Delta as a regional model for ecosystem restoration and sustainable coastal management, demonstrating the importance of science-based collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.