Agriculture and Natural Resources

The interface between crop agronomy, water, atmosphere, soil and the environment is scientifically addressed from the perspective of one of the most arid regions of Europe: the Ebro Valley. The agricultural sector currently faces constraints related to: globalization of agricultural markets; concurrent water, air and soil uses; regulations derived from European Union policies; increasing societal exigencies of sustainability and nature preservation; and the need to satisfy the growing demand for agricultural products. The research challenge is to produce scientific and technological information leading to more competitive, efficient and sustainable irrigated agricultural systems. Facing this challenge requires: 1) establishing innovative technologies for diagnosis, management and control; 2) increasing efficiency in the use of agricultural inputs; 3) increasing yield stability; and 4) preserving the agricultural natural resources and the environment in general.