AquaGuardian is a research and innovation project focused on improving the safety, resilience, and sustainability of drinking water supply systems through advanced digital technologies. The project develops an integrated, AI-supported framework for real-time monitoring, risk assessment, and management of water distribution networks, enabling early detection of potential threats and rapid response to ensure continuous access to safe drinking water.

In response to growing challenges such as climate change, aging infrastructure, and emerging environmental and security risks, AquaGuardian introduces a new approach to water system management. By combining distributed sensor networks, laboratory analytics, and intelligent data processing, the project enables continuous monitoring of both conventional water quality parameters and hazardous contaminants, including disinfection by-products. These data are integrated into a digital twin environment and supported by an advanced Decision Support System (DSS), allowing predictive maintenance, scenario analysis, and informed decision-making in both routine and emergency situations.

The project also focuses on monitoring early indicators of biofilm formation and mineral scaling, which are critical factors affecting water safety and hydraulic efficiency. A key innovation is the development and testing of advanced electrochemical sensors and biosensors capable of detecting a wide range of chemical and biological pollutants, including those resulting from intentional contamination. These highly sensitive sensors, combined with AI-based analytics, enable early warning and rapid detection of hazardous substances, supporting timely response and protection of public health. In parallel, the project includes an advanced laboratory research component aimed at assessing the potential long-term health effects of changes in water quality. This is achieved through innovative testing on human liver cell lines, complemented by epigenetic and glycan biomarker analyses, integrating laboratory findings with field data into a novel health-based risk assessment framework.

In addition, AI-enabled drones are used to monitor infrastructure, detect leaks, and assess system integrity, particularly in hard-to-access areas. All collected data are integrated into a secure digital platform that provides real-time alerts, risk maps, and operational dashboards for water utility operators, as well as relevant information for the public. Special attention is given to cybersecurity and data integrity, ensuring that all system components, from sensors to cloud infrastructure, are protected according to state-of-the-art standards.

Research activities will be conducted at the Sisak Water Utility in Croatia, providing a complex real-world environment for testing and optimizing the developed technologies.

By integrating artificial intelligence, advanced monitoring technologies, and digital tools, AquaGuardian contributes to the development of smarter, more resilient, and sustainable water systems, aligned with European Green Deal and digital transformation objectives.