Co-creation and Living Labs as a new research approach for soil health in tree crop areas of Piemonte
Soil research has made many advancements on the topic of soil health. By looking at the mechanisms that affect erosion, soil structure and the preservation of organic matter in the soils, researchers can offer potential solutions to improve soil health. So, why is the soil still undergoing degradation in many tree crop areas in Piemonte? There is an obvious gap between research and the application of the research results in real-life conditions.
The LivingSoiLL project aims at filling this gap through a novel approach to soil health: co-creation. Co-creation is a participatory process where all participants share their thoughts and experiences in a multi-actor approach. It’s not bottom-up, nor top-down, it’s co-creation. During a workshop held in November at Vite Colte Winery in Barolo (Langhe area, NW Italy) the problems of soil health in vineyards, hazelnut orchards, and chestnut groves were evidenced by farmers and technicians. Four discussion groups focusing on a specific question and led by a rapporteur were formed, the participants moved from one group to the other after a fixed time, and a general discussion on the results followed. The main soil health problems identified were the loss of soil structure and erosion (35 and 25% of the answers), which affected the three crops in a comparable way. Many suggestions about possible solutions/mitigation measures were mentioned: such as the increase of soil organic matter or the need to avoid soil compaction through appropriate soil management.
A further step in co-creation is that of field visits, when soil experts will use their skills to further interact with farmers, technicians and land-owners. The theoretical bases of a solution for the identified problem can then emerge, and will be tailored to real-life conditions in the experimental sites of the LL.
Healthy Soil to Permanent Crops Living Labs
Ongoing | 2024-2028
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Portugal, France, Italy, Poland, Spain, Belgium