SMART-Water project introduces digital tools for water quality monitoring

The SMART-Water project has introduced digital solutions to monitor water quality in response to climate change, as presented during a workshop at Hutovo Blato Nature Park. Funded through the Interreg VI-A IPA Program involving Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, the initiative focuses on the freshwater ecosystems of Lake Vransko, Lake Deransko, and Lake Skadar.

Key technological developments include a WEB GIS platform designed to integrate geospatial data and water quality monitoring results. The project also features a shared database, an online remote satellite monitoring system, and AI/ML predictive models capable of monitoring water quality in near real-time.

In addition to technical tools, the project has produced an educational guide on lake water quality to assist in the protection and management of these sensitive aquatic environments. Project leader Neven Cukrov noted that small freshwater systems are particularly vulnerable to the intensifying pressures of climate change.