Research projects funded by the PNRR
In the context of DD 1409/2022 the following external projects with UNINT as coordinator and research unit have been funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
RETINA: REmote sensing data INversion with multivariate functional modeling for essential climAte variables characterization (PRIN/PNRR Project)
Funded by the European Union – Next Generation EU
The Earth is experiencing tangible climate changes. This is demonstrated by the dynamics of values of essential climate variables (ECVs) that are available from the analysis of data produced by current and next-generation Earth observation missions.
RETINA is a multidisciplinary project that aims to develop new methods for the analysis of data produced by the interaction between electromagnetic waves and the Earth's surface. RETINA focuses on the characterization of surface soil moisture (SM) and freeze/thaw state (FT), which are geophysical variables linked to ECVs.
We propose, for the first time, the use of multivariate neural network (NN) operators in combination with their (approximate) inversion for modeling and estimating these variables from data provided by space missions. The retrieval of NN operators is integrated by a Bayesian inversion performed with Monte Carlo methods.
Principal Investigator
Danilo Costarelli (University of Perugia)
UNINT Associated Investigator
Domenico Daniele Bloisi
Contact details
E-mail: domenico.bloisi@unint.eu
DEMETRA ARTEMED: Adapting, Revising, and Tailoring Evidence-based interventions to enhance Mediterranean Diet adherence (PRIN/PNRR Project)
Funded by the European Union – Next Generation EU
Beyond the indisputable health benefits, the Mediterranean Diet (MeDiet), recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, is one of the most sustainable dietary models in the world. The MeDiet has a lower environmental impact than other dietary models due to its emphasis on local, seasonal plant-based foods (LSPF).
For this reason, the main objective of the DEMETRA project is to improve adherence to the MeDiet. “DEMETRA” reminds us of the cultural value of the MeDiet by referring to the goddess of the harvest and the harvest, as well as the cycle of the seasons. Being heteropalindromic, ARTEMED abbreviates the project title: “Adapting, Revising, and Tailoring Evidencebased interventions to enhance MEditerranean Diet adherence”. The main objective of this project will be achieved thanks to the collaboration of four Research Units (University of International Studies of Rome = UNINT, University of Padua = UNIPD, University of Modena-Reggio Emilia = UNIMORE, University of Naples Federico II = UNINA) thanks to a multi-method research design (i.e., qualitative studies, controlled experiments and digital interventions) characterized by different methodologies (e.g., questionnaires, implicit measures, focus groups, experimental auctions with taste tests, smartphone interventions) and a interdisciplinary approach (social psychology and behavioral economics).
The main objective will be specifically defined by 2 Milestones (Ms) divided into 11 Work Packages (WPs) each with specific Activities (19 studies and 11 dissemination activities). Milestone 1 (M1) focuses on raising awareness of the low environmental impact of MeDiet LSPFs and promoting their consumption. In the first year, UNIMORE and UNIPD will pretest the experimental materials and evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive, emotional, moral and normative appeals promoting LSPF consumption with 10 experimental studies. UNINA will test sensory claims promoting LSPF in 2 studies with a qualitative-quantitative methodology. At the end of the first year, all the Research Units will collaborate on 6 As to disseminate the results collected. Milestone 2 (M2) focuses on the development of a personalized digital intervention to disseminate the cultural heritage of the MeDiet. In the first year, UNINT will implement 3 Activities to engage people in using a mobile app that promotes LSPF consumption and will test the integration of different behavioral strategies aimed at supporting lasting changes. In the second year, UNINT will test tailor-made mobile interventions. The latest wave of dissemination will focus on presenting M2 results to the scientific community through 5 Activities. The overall outcome of the project will be an evidence-based protocol reporting the most effective communication strategies to improve LSPF consumption and their application in personalized digital interventions.
Principal Investigator
Valentina Carfora (University of International Studies of Rome)
UNINT Associated Investigator
Valentina Carfora
Contact details
E-mail: valentina.carfora@unint.eu
Bridge over troubled water (consumption): drivers of consumers' behaviors and policy interventions (PRIN/PNRR Project)
Funded by the European Union – Next Generation EU
The role of individuals' water consumption behaviors is expected to be crucial as climate change, increasing needs and inefficiencies in management may trigger significant water shocks. Indeed, policies from the supply side will have to be complemented by interventions on the demand side. This implies the need for a fully-fledged analysis of the drivers of water consumption behaviors.
Italy is a compelling case study in this respect, as it features significant water related stress (also) linked to consumption. We therefore need to achieve a better understanding of demand side driving forces, both theoretically and empirically. On the theoretical side, we will rely both on economic (neoclassical and behavioral) and socio-psychological literature to understand what may drive water consumption and water savings. On the empirical side, we will focus both on standard macro data (Istat, ISPRA) examined at municipal scale through the use of a stochastic frontier approach, as well as data from existing household sample surveys (Multipurpose Household Survey) investigated by adopting a multi -scale approach; we will also develop an ad hoc survey, aimed at assessing the relevance of specific driving forces that cannot be addressed using existing data. We will adopt, in particular, a structural equations approach to highlight complementarities and indirect effects. Finally, empirical analysis will also rely on experimental results, specifically through a laboratory activity that will foster the measurement of water related behaviors (eg, implicit and stated cognitions and attitudes about green practices; psychological and environmental characteristics etc.).
The main innovative objective of the project is to investigate the relationships connected to water use at different levels of analysis, starting from the individual/household up to regional and national level. This will contribute to Agenda 2030 Goal 6, and in particular to targets 6.4 (Increase water-use efficiency) and 6.6 (protect and restore water-related ecosystems) as well as to Goal 12, in particular target 12.2 (achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources). In relation to PNRR, we will contribute to Target 2.4 (Protection of land and water resources).
The project will feature significant socio-economic and scientific impacts at different levels. The regional and national levels will be the most relevant ones for applied research and policy implementation. At an international level, the project will generate novel research results, to be disseminated in international conferences and submitted to high level scientific journals. The project's results, as conceived by the work planned by the three units, can constitute an important knowledge base for institutions and bodies in charge, on the characteristics of consumption and on the possibilities of saving water resources in the Italian territories.
Principal Investigator
Alessio D'Amato (University of Rome Tor Vergata)
UNINT Associated Investigator
Amedeo Argentiero
Contact details
E-mail: amedeo.argentiero@unint.eu
