New irrigation and fertilization technologies to move towards more sustainable agriculture

On April 16, 2026, the face-to-face conference “New irrigation and fertilization technologies, evolution towards a more sustainable agriculture” will be held in Orihuela , a training event aimed at professionals in the agricultural sector interested in improving the management of water and nutrients on their farms.

Organized by the Cajamar Foundation in collaboration with the Higher Polytechnic School of Orihuela of the Miguel Hernández University , this free activity will last five hours and will offer a practical view on some of the main solutions that are marking the transition towards a more efficient, competitive and environmentally friendly agriculture.

In a context where water has become an increasingly scarce and strategic resource, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions of the Mediterranean, the conference will focus on tools and strategies to optimize both irrigation and fertilization. Key topics include the use of non-conventional water supply sources , such as desalination, wastewater treatment, and regeneration; digitalization and sensor technology applied to decision-making; and alternatives to synthetic fertilizers through the use of organic and organomineral sources, microorganisms, and biostimulants.

A program focused on solutions for the field

The day will begin at 09:00 with the presentation ceremony, in which Juan Martínez Tomé , director of the Higher Polytechnic School of Orihuela; Juan José Ruiz Martínez , rector of the Miguel Hernández University; and José Vegara Durá , mayor of Orihuela, will participate.

The program will then be structured into several thematic blocks. The first will address the role of non-conventional water resources in agriculture, with presentations on desalination for irrigation in horticultural crops and on the use of treated and reclaimed water.

The second session will be dedicated to the efficient use of irrigation water , with a special focus on sensor technology, digitalization, and precision fertigation. Experts participating in this section include Alejandro Pérez Pastor , professor at the Polytechnic University of Cartagena and CEO of Digital Data Farm, and Inmaculada Rodríguez Manzano , technical advisor at Ikos Tech.

Later, the day will focus on alternatives to synthetic fertilizers and tools for more efficient fertilization. Resources for decision-making in irrigation and fertilization will be presented, along with solutions based on residual organic matter, the use of biostimulants, and technologies aimed at improving soil health and nutrient use efficiency. Speakers include Carlos Baixauli Soria , director of the Cajamar Experimental Center; Raúl Moral Herrero , professor at Miguel Hernández University; Pedro Javier Zapata Coll , professor at UMH; and Marcos Caballero Molada , head of Agri-food Sustainability Development at Fertinagro Biotech.

The session will conclude with a round table discussion with the speakers and the closing is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.

More efficient management of water and nutrients

The event is designed to bring applied knowledge and real-world solutions to the agricultural sector, helping to reduce costs, optimize resources, and minimize the environmental impact of agricultural production. The day offers an opportunity to learn firsthand about innovative experiences, technologies, and approaches that are already contributing to improved farm sustainability.

Registration is free and will remain open until capacity is reached.