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Project title

Digital Twin-based solutions for enhanced integration of ecosystem services in water resource management

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Dublin City University (DCU)

Lead Applicant

Valerie McCarthy

Project Abstract

Lakes are essential components of our landscapes, providing a myriad of ecosystem services (ES) ranging from flood and drought regulation, recreational opportunities, climate regulation, irrigation, drinking water and habitat provision. However, climate change is increasingly threatening the resilience of lake ecosystems, in response to both gradual ongoing change and the increased occurrence of extreme climatic events impairing sustainable provisioning of ES. In this context, the utilization of cutting-edge technology and methodologies, such as Digital Twins (DTs), represents a promising avenue to enhance our understanding, management, and long-term protection of aquatic ecosystems. A DT is a virtual representation of a physical system, continuously updated in real-time, allowing for the simulation and analysis of its behavior. DTs offer a powerful tool to bridge the gap between complex, dynamic natural systems, and decision-makers. As part of the EcoTwin project we aim to co-design, with key stakeholders, a versatile DT prototype that incorporates the forecasting of ES provisioning. To achieve this aim, our challenge-led objectives are to: (i) Engage with a stakeholder/end-user network to co-identify key challenges and opportunities for a DT framework and build trust in digitally enabled approaches; (ii) Integrate ES approaches into policy and management; (iii) Co-design with stakeholders a transferable DT that facilitates integrated analysis upon ingestion of heterogeneous data sources (EO, in situ); (iv) Blend data streams and state-of-the-art models to enable short-term forecasting and long-term scenario assessments, including the effect of management interventions on ES; (v) Demonstrate the potential for, and build trust in, DTs with stakeholders through a collaborative platform to support ES assessment at focal sites in Europe; (vi) Enhance public engagement with research and water management using DTs and share learnings with the community; (vii) Promote water security and the uptake of DTs by decision makers through setting up of learning communities. By pursuing these objectives, EcoTwin aims to revolutionize the field of aquatic ecosystem management, ensuring the sustainability and resilience of lakes while optimizing the delivery of ES.

Grant Approved

€149,901.80

Research Hub

Protecting and Restoring Our Natural Environment

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

01/04/2025

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/03/2028