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”
Table of Contents
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
## Interview with Yann Fortunato:
**World-today-News,** **Special Report: Climate Change Solutions**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Yann. Your project, Les Arches Castriotes, is garnering a lot of attention. Can you tell our readers what makes it so unique?
**Yann Fortunato:**
Certainly! Les arches Castriotes isn’t just a farm; it’s a living laboratory demonstrating the power of agroforestry in combating climate change. We’ve transformed five hectares of barren land, once used for vineyards, into a thriving ecosystem. Imagine: 2,400 diverse trees and shrubs, chosen for their resilience against a warming climate, interplanted with 36,000 rosemary and lavender bushes we use for essential oils. It’s a symphony of nature, humming with life.
**Interviewer:**
How does this approach align with addressing climate change concerns?
**Yann Fortunato:**
unlike conventional farming, agroforestry functions in harmony with nature. The trees act as shields against erosion, while enriching the soil and absorbing CO2.This helps mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon.This system fosters biodiversity, creating habitats for insects, birds, and other wildlife. it’s nature working in tandem with us, not against us.
**Interviewer:**
What has been the impact on the local environment and community?
**Yann Fortunato:**
The results are truly gratifying. The soil, once depleted, has regained its vitality. We’ve witnessed a resurgence in biodiversity. People are drawn to the tranquility of the fields, reconnecting with nature. It’s a win-win situation!
**Interviewer:**
Many advocate simply replanting trees in forests. How does your project differ?
**Yann Fortunato:**
Planting trees is essential, but it’s not the whole answer. Les Arches Castriotes showcases the added benefit of integrating trees within agricultural landscapes. It’s about creating a symbiotic relationship between trees and crops, a system where both thrive.
**Interviewer:**
What message do you hope to convey to readers concerned about the future?
**Yann Fortunato:**
We can create solutions to climate change by embracing nature-based approaches. agroforestry is a shining example. It combines food production with environmental restoration. It’s about investing in a future where nature and humanity coexist in harmony.
**Interviewer:** Thank you,Yann,for sharing your vision and expertise.
**World-Today-News readers,** les Arches Castriotes offers a compelling case study in enduring agriculture and climate resilience.As Yann Fortunato highlights,the future lies in embracing innovative solutions that integrate nature into our everyday lives. It’s a call to action, a vision worth considering.
