Joint MONALISA–TERRASAFE Webinar on Innovations to Combat Desertification
To mark the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025, the EU-funded MONALISA and TERRASAFE projects joined forces for a high-impact Joint Webinar on June 17th, 2025, under the theme:
“Innovations for Tackling Desertification.”
The event brought together more than 200 participants from across Europe and beyond, including researchers, policymakers, land practitioners, and community actors. The goal was to spotlight scalable, science-based solutions that restore land health and strengthen resilience in the face of increasing desertification.
The session was chaired by Dr. Charlotte-Anne Chivers (University of Gloucestershire), who guided participants through two insightful sessions representing both projects.
Project coordinators and work package leaders from MONALISA and TERRASAFE showcased their contributions to sustainable land management:
- Giovanna Seddaiu (University of Sassari), gave an overview of the MONALISA project’s transdisciplinary approach and Mediterranean focus.
- Cristina Domingo Marimón (CREAF) presented MONALISA innovations applied across case study regions.
- Francesca Assennato (ISPRA) introduced the joint Community of Knowledge and Practice platform, developed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Jacob Keizer (University of Aveiro), TERRASAFE Coordinator, provided an overview of the project’s mission and integrated methodology.
- Thomas Timberlake (University of York) shared TERRASAFE’s experience in collaborating with local communities to co-develop nature-based solutions.
- Jannes Stolte (NIBIO) explored technological innovations aimed at reducing risks in degraded areas.
The webinar also featured guest speakers who brought valuable international perspectives:
- Gustavo Viera Ruiz (GESPLAN) presented atmospheric water harvesting and reforestation strategies for mountainous, isolated regions.
- Benz Kotzen (University of Greenwich) shared experiences using drone technology for landscape restoration.
- Leigh Winowiecki (CIFOR–ICRAF) introduced advanced methods for soil and land health monitoring.
Together, the speakers emphasized the importance of scalable innovation, stakeholder engagement, and interdisciplinary cooperation in addressing land degradation, particularly in Mediterranean and climate-vulnerable regions.
This collaborative event demonstrated the power of innovation and cooperation in addressing land degradation. By combining technological solutions, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge sharing, MONALISA and TERRASAFE are helping chart a course toward healthier, more resilient landscapes.
We thank all participants and speakers for their contributions and commitment. Let’s continue working together for sustainable land management and soil resilience across Europe and beyond.
>> Access the webinar recording in MONALISA Info Hub
