Assembly of European Horticultural Regions

EU projects

NOVASOIL

AREFLH is a partner of the project NOVASOIL project  focuses on “Innovative on Innovative business models for soil health”. In the framework of the project, we have the new output of “Innovative Business Models for Soil Health.

With its work on carbon farming, the project is paving the way for innovative solutions by creating

 sustainable business models that protect and restore soil health.  This is illustrated by the case of the Po Delta, located in Emilia-Romagna (Italy), where an innovative business model centered on carbon farming, blending sustainable practices with economic strategies is being developped. 

The Delta Institute and the University of Ferrara have joined forces to tackle the challenges posed by the sandy and saline soils of the Po Delta. Working in the agricultural transformation is carbon farming, a strategy that integrates carbon capture with innovative farming practices. This approach turns natural limitations into economic and ecological benefits. 

 

Key Elements of the Sustainable Business Model 

  1. Carbon sequestration: 
    Techniques such as crop rotation, green manure, and reduced tillage enhance soil organic matter, increasing carbon storage. 
  1. Certification and added value: 
    Produce cultivated under these standards is certified for quality and sustainability, commanding premium market prices. 
  1. Resilient production: 
    Varieties of tomatoes and potatoes, chosen for their salt tolerance, maintain productivity in challenging soils. Tomatoes are grown in the Po Delta, for instance, benefit from higher salinity, which boosts their sugar content (Brix level), enhancing flavour and sweetness. 
  1. Access to carbon markets: 
    Farmers can sell carbon credits generated through sustainable practices, diversifying their income streams while contributing to climate change mitigation. 

Benefits of the Carbon Farming Business Model 

The model designed by the Delta Institute and the University of Ferrara offers comprehensive solutions that combine environmental sustainability with economic viability. 

Environmental Impact 

  • Improved soil biodiversity. 
  • Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. 
  • Restoration of degraded sandy soils. 

Economic Impact 

  • Additional income from carbon credit sales. 
  • Enhanced competitiveness in both national and international premium markets through quality certifications. 
  • Cost reductions via efficient resource use, particularly water. 

Community Impact 

  • Strengthened agricultural communities capable of adapting to climate challenges. 
  • Adoption of practices that ensure long-term sustainability and resilience. 

 

Conclusion : A Replicable Model for Agricultural Sustainability 

The business model implemented in the Po Delta demonstrates how research and innovation can transform agricultural constraints into opportunities. Led by the Delta Institute and the University of Ferrara, this approach not only boosts productivity and crop quality but also safeguards the environment and strengthens the local economy. 

By integrating regenerative practices, quality certifications, and access to carbon markets, this model is adaptable to other regions facing similar challenges, setting a benchmark for global sustainable agriculture. 

 

To learn more about the research click here  

 

Know more about Novasoil

 

This project receives funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under Grant Agreement n°101091268

 

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