Water Efficient Farming in Italy ππ·π π§
Innovative Solutions to Agricultural Challenges
Dear ReWilders,Β
Water scarcity is a threat to the agricultural system and it is necessary for farmers to find efficient water management methods that will preserve this vital resource for generations to come. Water is obviously important for agriculture because it makes it possible to grow nutritious crops for us to eat and survive. But, the agricultural system is the biggest consumer of water, and farmers absolutely need to adopt innovative practices to combat water scarcity caused by climate challenges.Β
ReWild created a film for Syngenta Biologicals, which we produced with BBC Storyworks and was granted the opportunity to tell a story of a farm in Polignano a Mare, Puglia, Italy. The town is known as a major producer of both table grapes and wine grapes. This town recently faced a severe drought, which resulted in water scarcity. The lack of water caused an environment not suitable for farming. Watch the film below:Β
In this film, we spoke to a farmer by the name of Marco Laselva, who is a third generation grower. We spent some time with him in his vegetable garden that he is so passionate about. Marco is the Managing and Sales Director at the 2Erre farm. The farm prides itself as the top producer of local grapes. Due to their nutrient rich soil and farming methods passed down through generations. 2Erre, like many other farms in the Polignano a Mare town, was affected by the droughts.Β
However, 2Erre was able to quickly adapt and find innovative solutions to water scarcity. The use of biotechnology techniques was important for 2Erre to innovate beyond the issue of water scarcity. Syngenta & Valagro in partnership with 2Erre farm uses a new solution called Talete to increase water productivity. Talete is a biostimulant product that has natural biomolecules that interact with a plantβs physiology. This process increases the cropβs absorption of water and retention of water. Talete is used during the fertigation process when farming, especially when there is a shortage of water. The product helps maximise the available water and this can help farmers plan irrigation phases more accurately.
βInnovation goes hand in hand with agriculture todayβ - Alfredo Sgrignuoli, Product Manager, Syngenta & Valagro
Some advances in technology have equipped us with tools that enable us to mimic nature's behaviour and the systems it has in place for regeneration. It is our responsibility to ensure that we make use of the tools available that allow us to learn from nature and reapply the knowledge back to nature. Talete is an example of how we can use innovative practices to equip farmers with tools that combat environmental challenges. We can all play a hand in making use of innovation for environmental benefit, by investing in products such as Talete.Β
If innovation can combat droughts caused by climate change, it has the potential to help us find solutions for other environmental challenges we face. It will only require us to educate ourselves and invest in technologies beneficial to the environment. Developing an innovative mindset that considers future generations is one way in which we can be more sustainable. Tap into your innovative spirit and letβs build a sustainable and regenerative world together.Β
News from ReWild Africa:Β
We are undergoing some exciting filming for Terra Nil, which is a game about transforming a barren, lifeless landscape into a thriving, vibrant ecosystem. They have partnered with Endangered Wildlife Trust and will be giving a percentage of their profits to real-world conservation in Southern Africa! You can download the game on Play Store or play it via Netflix games!Β
Modise Tsiu, a highly motivated student from the Sustainability Institute has started a part time internship with ReWild to assist us in marketing. Welcome Modise!
A warm welcome to Ben Pama, who has officially joined the team as assistant producer!Β Β
As mentioned in a previous newsletter, Julian Culverhouse will be working with ReWild for a few months. Itβs been such a pleasure so far to be working with such a talented filmmaker!
Julian and Alessandra are back from a shoot in Zimbabwe for BBC Storyworks, and Jules is currently in the edit suite for that. Strength!
We recently celebrated Benβs birthday with the most delicious homemade cake, made by our very loved Abigail. She is open to orders, so if youβd like to support a new business venture, and are in need of a beautiful cake - you know who to call! Please see details in picture below:Β
Have a lovely long weekend!Β