Under the pale autumn sun is a kilometer-long green patch, a stone’s throw from the Castries (Hérault) water drive. As far as the eye can see, young trees surround rows of rosemary and lavandin, in an abundance of plants that are soft to the eye. Yann Fortunato welcomes us with his labrador to his campus, or rather his “living laboratory”, as he calls it. On five hectares of barren land, previously dedicated to vineyards, seven years ago, 2,400 trees and shrubs of various species were planted in organic farming, all endemic to the Mediterranean climate and on the selection for the ability to adapt to global warming. 36,000 rosemary and lavandin trees were also planted to be used for the production of essential oils and 20 hives of bees were installed as part of the project known as Les Arches Castriotes.
“This experimental outdoor laboratory makes possible all the benefits of agroforestry : the food produced there is of high quality, the environment and the air are preserved, the soil has regained its life, vitality and richness, biodiversity has returned and the public comes to reconnect with nature. Where there is forest, agriculture does well, and vice versa, explains this forester and forester, who founded French rootsa company with a mission named B Corpand a member of CESER Occitanie representing the forest industry. And we’ve brought beauty into this range again! » he willingly touches the trunk of a fig tree with his hand.
“It won’t be enough to just put trees back in the forests”
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Yann Fortunato is passionate about forests. He comes from a family of wine growers in the Monts du Beaujolais and grew up among the vines and the woods. “Over the years, I have developed a deep passion for trees, these magnificent living creatures that embody balance, protection and transmission between generations. The forest for me is a wonderful permanent place. » A strong defender of the recognition of the role of trees in our societies, especially in the sustainable agriculture of tomorrow, he brings joy to the ton of freshly harvested almonds. On the plot, the large trees (lime trees, mulberry trees, pecan trees) protect the medium-sized ones (almond trees) and small trees (lemon trees, orange trees, pistachio trees, pomegranate trees) with the shade they save.
Where there is forest, agriculture will do well, and vice versa.
“For 70 years, we have been separated from nature and we have neglected the importance of trees in our lands, our forests, our agriculture and our cities. However, the tree has many advantages: it absorbs carbon of the atmosphere, allowing us to preserve and develop biodiversity, preserve our soils by fighting erosion, create new islands, mitigate climate risks, the cycle of maintain water and fight against some chronic diseases. »
“But it won’t be enough to just put trees back into the forests. Despite the deterioration of our environment, we must put it back everywhere, apart from human activity,” continued the international expert.
“The tree is at the heart of the solutions to our planet’s ills”
In his eyes, “two worlds have turned their backs on each other: the world of the foresters and the world of the farmers,” he explains while examining the plot. But they must work together again. Yes agroforestry allows us to restore the most valuable thing: the soil. Today, 75% of agricultural soil has been degraded by increasing crops and excessive use of chemicals there is no environmental health ».
His company Racines de France has developed four other forestry and agroforestry exhibitors in France, including Brasach forest in the Tarn, a badly treated forest that Yann Fortunato has been trying to rebuild for more than ten years. Each time, the idea is the same: to invite economic and political decision-makers to see with their own eyes, on the ground, to convince them that the creation of new models of forestry management and agroforestry that meet today’s challenges. possible “We will give the tree its rightful place at the heart of our ecosystems. Their presence in the areas, their life cycle and their funding must be recreated,” he continues, with the conviction that “the tree is at the heart of the solutions to our planet’s ills.” Hopefully without preaching in the desert.
2024-11-29 20:04:00
#bring #beauty #land #Montpellier #reviving #land #gasps #air
## World Today News Exclusive:
**How One Man is Rethinking Agriculture’s Future with ”Living Laboratories”**
**by: [Your Name], Senior Editor**
Today, the world faces a growing concern: How to ensure food security while mitigating the impacts of climate change. Yann Fortunato, a forester and founder of the B corp certified company, French Roots, believes he has part of the answer. We caught up with Fortunato at his “living laboratory” project, Les Arches Castriotes, in Castries, France to learn more about his innovative approach to agriculture.
**World Today News:** Yann, your project is incredibly ambitious. Can you explain the concept behind Les Arches Castriotes?
**Yann Fortunato:** We’ve created a five-hectare model farm designed to showcase the benefits of agroforestry – a system that intentionally integrates trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes. Imagine a kilometer-long tapestry of young trees, herbs like rosemary and lavandin, and buzzing beehives, all working in harmony.
**WTN:** How does this approach differ from conventional farming?
**YF:** Traditional agriculture often prioritises monocultures and intensive practices that deplete the soil and harm biodiversity. Agroforestry takes a holistic approach, mimicking natural ecosystems. The trees provide shade, windbreaks, and habitat for beneficial insects, while enhancing soil fertility. We also incorporate beekeeping for pollination and honey production, creating a truly integrated system.
**WTN:** What are some of the key benefits you’ve observed at Les Arches Castriotes?
**YF:** The results have been remarkable. The soil has regained its vitality, biodiversity has flourished, and the air quality has improved.We’ve also seen significant benefits in terms of crop quality and resilience.
**WTN:** You mentioned that your project employs organic farming practices. Why is that significant?
**YF:** Organic farming aligns perfectly with our ideology of sustainability and harmony with nature. By avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, we protect soil health, water resources, and biodiversity. We’re committed to producing food that is not only nutritious and delicious but also ethically and environmentally sound.
**WTN:** What message do you have for policymakers and farmers around the world considering similar initiatives?
**YF:** It won’t be enough to simply replant trees in forests; we need to fundamentally rethink our relationship with agriculture. Agroforestry offers a proven solution for creating resilient, productive, and sustainable food systems. By integrating trees into farm landscapes, we can simultaneously address climate change, promote biodiversity, and ensure food security for future generations.
**WTN:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Yann. We look forward to seeing your project continue to thrive and inspire others to embrace a more sustainable future.
