Institute of Environment

Its teaching and research cover a wide range of disciplines related to the study of soil and water: the formation, genesis, evolution, classification, morphology, physiology and properties of soil, soil microbiology and fertility, plant nutrition and fertiliser management, the irrigation of crops, the efficient use of water resources and advanced irrigation technologies, including drip systems, fertigation, chemigation and precision irrigation management based on soil moisture monitoring, soil and water conservation, land reclamation, erosion control, and the design, operation and management of irrigation and drainage systems, as well as research on soil pollution and degradation. Particular attention is paid to climate change and to measures for adapting to it and mitigating its effects on agriculture, by developing and promoting climate-smart farming practices.

In recent years, a significant part of its activities has been directed towards applying digital technologies and innovative solutions to natural resources management, including geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, unmanned aerial vehicles, sensor technologies and decision support systems. These tools contribute to precision and climate-resilient agriculture through a more efficient use of water, soil and other resources, higher productivity and fewer negative impacts on the environment.