ECOVINEGOALS

Agricultural areas in partner regions are frequently connected and close to inhabited areas and areas of environmental, landscape and tourism interest. The impact of intensive agriculture is often evident and causes conflicts between opposing interests. The intensification of production systems has led to a high degree of simplification of agro-systems and a deterioration of the environment and landscape, mainly due to the massive use of chemicals, managed in a short-term vision, and to changes in the traditional cultural landscape. Viticultural areas included in or located near protected or fragile areas, recreational areas with landscapes of cultural and touristic interest, should be managed with separate criteria. An agro-ecological approach to wine production and the application of the principles of the circular economy in local supply chains could allow conflicts to be overcome, resources to be better utilised, production with ecological qualities and territories to be more liveable. A growing number of people, institutions and associations are seeking a participatory solution to solve the problems of reduced biodiversity, degradation of ecosystems, loss of traditional landscapes and environmental pollution caused by intensive cultivation practices. The application, in selected wine-growing areas, of innovative models, tools and methods for the management and evaluation of the wine-growing ecosystem and the services provided by its management with agro-ecological criteria can contribute significantly to the identification of interregional solutions. The participation of all stakeholders is essential and should be fostered and improved through the application of participatory land management techniques and models. The agro-ecological approach, based on a strategy of long-term enhancement of the agri-food system, can be a key element in raising the economy and livability of many territories.

The project proposal aims at the development of shared strategies, models and tools at an interregional level to carry out an agroecological transition in the management of wine-growing areas with environmental and landscape value. The improvement of ecosystem services resulting from the application of the agroecological model may provide benefits for the population and tourist activities in the area.