Across the Mediterranean, farmers face increasing challenges from water scarcity, soil degradation, and climate change. The NUSTALGIC- Neglected and Underutilized Species for Water Harvesting and Building Climate Resilience-project brings together researchers, communities, and innovators to revive forgotten crops and ancestral water-harvesting techniques that can secure the future of dry-farming systems.

By combining traditional knowledge with modern innovation, NUSTALGIC promotes a WEFE Nexus approach (Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystems) to create resilient, efficient, and inclusive agricultural landscapes.

The project focuses on legumes, barley, and cactus, drought-tolerant crops that improve soil fertility, save water, and open new market opportunities. Through collaborative DRy-farming system multi-actor Innovation PlatformS (DRIPS), NUSTALGIC empowers farmers, especially women and youth, to co-create sustainable solutions and fair employment prospects, supporting both climate resilience and social transformation across Mediterranean communities.