Water management in Corsica takes center stage

Corsica faces significant water management challenges, according to Angèle Bastiani, mayor of L'Île-Rousse and president of the Corsica Tourism Agency (ATC). She organized a day of collective intelligence on Thursday to discuss sustainable water use, bringing together tourism professionals, local authorities, associations, and experts.

Corsica joins Mediterranean water initiative

The event was part of the WATERISE program, a European initiative under the INTERREG Mediterranean cooperation program. Corsica collaborates with several Mediterranean islands, including Pantelleria, Sicily, Minorca, Malta, and Cyprus, to develop sustainable water use solutions through natural methods, traditional practices, and technology.

Local projects aim for practical results

Angèle Bastiani stressed that the WATERISE project should deliver tangible benefits for residents. Three pilot sites are planned in and around L'Île-Rousse, focusing on practical water management solutions that can be implemented in the city.

First pilot site focuses on gardens

The first pilot site involves improving family gardens along the Palazzi path in Santa-Reparata-di-Balagna. Restoration of two old wells and the creation of a vegetated area to retain runoff are planned. The project will also include a small nursery for the municipality and allocate some plots to residents without gardens.

Second project targets a wasteland

A second project aims to transform a 3,000 m² wasteland near the gendarmerie into a green public space. The site already has underground systems to retain water, which will be used for irrigation. This initiative also aims to reduce urban heat and may be expanded to other areas, including school courtyards.

Educational Water House planned

A third part of the program includes creating a WATERISE Water House, an educational center to raise awareness about water challenges. The deputy mayor noted that children can be effective in promoting sustainable practices, similar to how they influence waste sorting behavior.

Tourism and sustainability align

Jean-Louis Moretti of the Corsica Tourism Agency highlighted the agency’s role in promoting water-friendly practices in tourist accommodations. Since 2021, the agency has supported the European Ecolabel in Corsica, aiming to improve water management in hotels and campsites.

Flooding remains a concern

Despite the focus on water preservation, the event also addressed flood risks. The Padule, a watercourse that flows underground beneath the city, requires maintenance to improve water flow during heavy rains. Several retention devices have been installed in urban areas, but more work is needed.

Collaborative workshops shape future plans

The day of collective intelligence included two workshops to discuss water-related challenges and coordinate efforts. The discussions will be compared with those of other partner islands, ensuring a shared approach to water management. These reflections will also inform future planning beyond current projects.