Traditional agri-food systems are increasingly receiving attention at international level, especially thanks to their multifunctional role and as examples for alternatives to agricultural models based on maximizing productivity. Traditional agri-food systems developed through the centuries by local communities are still actively supporting the livelihood of local farmers, providing solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation as well as contributing to the preservation of agro-biodiversity, traditional knowledge and cultural identity. The importance of these systems is testified by Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems Programme established by the Food and Agriculture Organization, whose aim is to identify and preserve worldwide sites characterised by agricultural systems created and managed by local communities.
The project will focus in Italy, Morocco and Algeria, applying a multidisciplinary approach linking together landscape structure, climatological studies, social role and biodiversity assessment. These three systems have been developed in challenging environmental conditions (steep slopes, dry and hot climate, and water scarcity) but are crucial for the livelihood of local communities and part of the Mediterranean diet. The results of the project will lead to the identification of the best practices to be replicated in other traditional agri-food systems to increase the adaptation and resilience to social and/or environmental systems shocks.
*At the time of the proposal. Please consider this data as an accurate estimate; it may vary during the project’s lifespan.
Total costs include in kind contribution by grant holders and can therefore be higher than the total requested funding.