Our trip to Spain as part of the Erasmus+ AgroYouth project was an unforgettable experience that provided us with deep insights into the agricultural practices and culture of the Huelva region. From March 19 to 22, 2024, we had the opportunity to participate in the AgroDirect module, a multifaceted program that allowed us to dive deep into the world of sustainable and regenerative agriculture just before the project's conclusion in the summer.
Day 1: Tradition and Progress at the "del Condado" Wine Cooperative
Our first destination was the historic wine cooperative in Bollullos del Condado, established in 1955, which presented us with an impressive example of the melding of tradition and progress. Particularly fascinating was experiencing how the cooperative deals with the challenges of modern winemaking while integrating sustainable practices. The tour through the vineyards and cellars provided us insights into local production and the careful management of resources.
Day 2: Efficiency at Cuna de Platero
The visit to Cuna de Platero, a leading strawberry cooperative in Moguer, demonstrated how efficiency and technology can work hand in hand in modern agricultural production. The specialized cultivation methods and innovative use of greenhouses underscored the cooperative’s commitment to efficient production methods.
Day 3: Regenerative Agriculture at Terra Sintrópica
A highlight of our trip was the visit to Terra Sintrópica in Mértola, Portugal. An introduction to syntropic agriculture illustrated how sustainable farming can actively contribute to the regeneration of ecosystems. The commitment to education and community building, involving local schools and producing food with a direct positive impact on the region, reflected the great commitment and significant influence of the project.
Day 4: The Art of Olive Oil Production at Del Cetino
On our last day in Spain, Del Cetino in Bollullos revealed to us the care and dedication that go into the production of high-quality olive oil. The innovative approaches to optimizing the cultivation and processing of olives, combined with a deep respect for nature, showed how traditional craftsmanship and modern technology can come together to produce top-quality products.
Summary of Our Experiences
Participating in the final module of the Erasmus+ AgroYouth project has broadened our understanding of the importance and diversity of sustainable agricultural practices. The encounters with dedicated producers and the insights into their work have inspired us and shown that sustainable and regenerative approaches in the agricultural sector are not only possible, but also successful and forward-looking. We return with new perspectives and inspired by the people we met, ready to incorporate what we have learned into our work and community.
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