Biodiversity

Biodiversity is possible!

Olive farms participating in the Olivares Vivos initiative have experienced a 30% increase in flora and fauna, which may enhance the value of their extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). This boost has been confirmed by the most extensive study on olive grove biodiversity in Andalusia, conducted by the University of Jaén and the CSIC.

The results indicate that incorporating biodiversity into farming can improve farmers' profits by adding value to their products, according to Asunción Ruiz, Executive Director of SEO/BirdLife.

Researchers from the LIFE Olivares Vivos program, led by SEO/BirdLife, have declared the success of this model of olive cultivation. "It has significantly restored species and increased the abundance of flora and fauna within just three years," they reported.

In 2016, 40 olive farms were chosen for the study, with half adopting the Olivares Vivos approach and the other half serving as a control group. The program involved planting native trees and shrubs, preserving ground cover, and rehabilitating unproductive land. To aid wildlife, ponds, water troughs, and nesting boxes were introduced.

Pedro Rey, an ecology professor at the University of Jaén, noted, "Following the transformation of these 20 groves, we observed an average of 30 new species per grove, with species recovery surpassing 12% and abundance soaring by 70%."

Increases of 12-40% were seen in bee, bird, and plant populations, alongside a significant surge in ant species. As native vegetation flourishes, creating new ecosystems, biodiversity is expected to keep rising.

The market value of olive oil from these groves could potentially increase. "EVOO from these vibrant groves aids in the preservation of biodiversity," remarked José Eugenio Gutiérrez, the Andalusian delegate for SEO/BirdLife. Efforts are underway to develop a certification process for the Olivares Vivos seal to provide consumer assurance.

At present, only EVOO from the 20 test groves is eligible for the seal, yet interest has spread to over 600 producers. "These findings verify that biodiversity in agriculture not only boosts profitability but also serves as a model for environmental policies," Asunción Ruiz affirmed.