Water expert joins RMIT Europe

Water expert joins RMIT Europe

Drawing on extensive expertise in water resource science from Melbourne, Australia, RMIT’s Professor Vincent Pettigrove is set to collaborate with RMIT Europe’s staff and industry partners over the next six months, particularly through his involvement in a research project aimed at improving coastal resilience throughout Europe.

As Europe continues to navigate complex issues related to water management, Pettigrove will offer fresh insights and cutting-edge technologies from his Australian projects to support local communities in building resilience against climate impacts.

Synergies between Australia and Spain in water management

According to Pettigrove, when it comes to managing water resources, there are deep synergies between Australia and Spain.

“In Spain, as in Australia, there is a clear demand for innovative solutions in agriculture and public sector water management,” he said.

“Both countries face similar challenges, including water scarcity, pollution, and the management of algal blooms, particularly in coastal areas.”

Pettigrove’s deep understanding of the complexities involved in managing water resources in Australia’s dry regions will be an asset to European partners. 

Additionally, his insights into emerging pollutants and how water can be adequately treated for reuse in environmental purposes are valuable in helping European countries monitor and manage local water systems and utilise water resources in water-scarce regions.

15 April 2025

Share

A person is presenting in front of a screen displaying a slide titled "Water for the environment – Murray Darling Basin," with images of nature and various logos. Professor Vincent Pettigrove offers insights and cutting-edge technologies from his Australian projects to support local communities in building resilience against climate impacts.

Global collaborations for a regenerative future

Over the coming months, Pettigrove will commence a new project with European research partners to address coastal resilience and climate change.

“We hope that this collaboration with partners across Europe can be an example of how international research can drive progress in the fields of climate resilience and water management,” said Pettigrove. 

Moreover, while at RMIT Europe, Pettigrove will work with companies like AstraZeneca to help improve water quality in regions impacted by treated wastewater. 

He will also participate in research seminars and collaborate with local institutions, exchanging knowledge and good practices. 

“I am looking forward to learning new technologies for potential adoption,” said Pettigrove.

Story: Huong Nguyen

Return to RMIT News
15 April 2025

Share

  • Regenerative Futures
  • RMIT Europe
Engage

Related News

nicu-thumbnail.jpg

European research lays the groundwork for future stem cell clinical trials

RMIT has contributed to an international consortium exploring how human mesenchymal stem cells could help to repair brain injury in children born preterm.

Electricity bill with light bulb, several coins, calculator and pen on the desk. Concept of electricity prices and tax payments.

Banning energy disconnections shouldn’t destabilise markets, study finds

Approaches by some European countries and Australia to protect energy consumers could help countries worldwide phase out harmful electricity disconnections without destabilising power markets, new research has found.

bolster-thumbnail-1.jpg

RMIT research innovates social change through climate justice

RMIT research has revealed how marginalised voices can be championed in shaping policy on decarbonisation efforts in Europe.

preterm-thumbnail.jpg

The impact of early life events on lifelong health

RMIT researchers are investigating the earliest moments of life and their role in the development of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Show more
aboriginal flag float-start torres strait flag float-start

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

More information