Introduction
The WATERISE Project responds to the growing challenge of water scarcity on Mediterranean islands—Pantelleria, Lampedusa, Menorca, Corsica, Lesvos, Cyprus, and Malta—where rising temperatures and seasonal tourism put severe strain on resources. By combining traditional practices like dammusi and Pantesco gardens with innovative solutions such as natural wastewater treatment, rainwater harvesting, and atmospheric water generation, WATERISE develops and tests practical, low-impact approaches in key tourist sites like hotels, parks, and museums. Through local pilot projects, study circles, bootcamps, and a shared e-learning hub, the initiative fosters knowledge exchange among 50 local authorities and stakeholders. Its ultimate goal is to embed water-smart strategies into tourism, creating resilient, sustainable destinations across the Mediterranean.