The Benefits
The implementation of the proposed action is expected to result in the:
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Decrease in fertilizer requirements.
- Limitation of environmental impacts on water and air.
- Enhancement of soil quality.
- Minimization of waste production.
The anticipated benefits at the soil level include:
- Increased organic matter and essential macro-nutrients such as N, P, and K.
- Improved water retention capacity of the soil, i.e., water-holding capacity.
- Increase in soil porosity, contributing to better aeration and biodiversity, i.e., the growth of soil microorganisms and the diversity of plant species in the soil substrate.
Specific innovations being implemented are:
- Composting of residues in the olive grove and direct application.
- Use liquid waste from the olive mill to regulate moisture in composting.
- Utilization of biochar in the produced compost and its application in olive groves.
Overall, the project will allow for the development of an improved process for the integrated management and utilization of olive farming and oil production residues, benefiting both olive cultivation and the environment.