From 20 to 26 July, the PCP WISE project was showcased at the 1st International Conference on Land Degradation and Restoration, held in Valencia, Spain. The event brought together researchers, academics and experts from around the world to discuss the latest scientific advances in soil science, land degradation, ecosystem restoration and climate change adaptation.
Representing the project, Davoud Omarzadeh (IEEC) presented PCP WISE to an audience largely composed of environmental science specialists. This participation provided a valuable opportunity to demonstrate how scientific excellence can be translated into practical solutions supporting public authorities facing climate-related challenges.
Bridging research and operational needs
Unlike events typically focused on innovation or Earth Observation, this conference was primarily centred on scientific research. Davoud Omarzadeh therefore tailored his presentation to address a key issue for this audience: how results from academic research can generate tangible societal impact through innovative public procurement mechanisms.
The presentation highlighted PCP WISE as a bridge between scientific knowledge and its operational implementation. Through a Pre-Commercial Procurement (PCP) scheme with a budget of €12 million, the project brings together public buyers, research organisations, universities, SMEs and companies to co-develop innovative Earth Observation-based solutions capable of addressing concrete water- and climate-related challenges.
From scientific knowledge to public innovation
A key message of the presentation was that research, while essential, represents only the first step towards climate resilience. Equally important is the ability to integrate innovative technologies into the decision-making processes of public authorities.
PCP WISE addresses this challenge by fostering close collaboration between suppliers, public buyers and end users throughout the procurement process. This approach ensures that solutions are designed to meet real operational needs, thereby facilitating their future adoption by public actors responsible for water management and climate change adaptation.
Strengthening links between science and society
The presentation generated strong interest among participants, reflecting a growing awareness of the role that innovative public procurement can play in enhancing the value of scientific results.
By engaging with the scientific community, PCP WISE is expanding its network beyond the traditional innovation ecosystem, while encouraging dialogue between researchers and public decision-makers working towards more resilient and sustainable water management systems across Europe.
