Exploring Best Practices in Sicily, Italy
On the 16th and 17th of April 2024, partners of the GROW Your Own Tree project, alongside dedicated volunteers, visited Sicily, Italy. The gathering aimed to facilitate the exchange, gathering, and selection of best practices aimed at fostering sustainability and community development.
16th & 17th April, 2024
Innovative and impactful initiatives in Sicily.
We had the privilege of witnessing firsthand some of the most innovative and impactful initiatives in Sicily. Among the standout examples was Arkè Olio di Sicilia, a pioneering company that reshaped the landscape of Sicilian olive oil production. Established in 2001, Arkè embarked on a mission to oversee the entire value chain of Sicilian oil, ensuring its global recognition and market penetration. Today, the company’s efforts span over 150 hectares of olive groves, encompassing 45,000 trees. Through meticulous regulation and stringent quality controls, Arkè has set a benchmark for excellence in olive oil production, earning accolades and exporting to numerous countries.
Another remarkable practice is the Ciauli AgriCoop cooperative, a testament to community-driven sustainability. Founded in Palermo four years ago, Ciauli emerged from a grassroots movement of small organic producers and social enterprises. What began as a modest solidarity purchasing group has blossomed into a thriving hub for locally sourced goods and social empowerment. Ciauli serves as a nexus where farmers, consumers, and social initiatives converge, promoting short supply chains and sustainable agricultural practices. Notably, the cooperative hosts the workshop of Cuoche Combattenti, a project combating gender violence through culinary arts.
The gathering in Sicily underscored the importance of sharing and disseminating such best practices to inspire positive change on a broader scale. With collection of 30 exemplary initiatives aimed at enhancing local environments, optimizing natural resources, and fostering inclusive growth, the project aims to build grounds for a brighter, more sustainable future.
In Slovenia and Italy, a wealth of innovative ideas awaits, ready to impart invaluable lessons and insights. By harnessing the power of collaboration and knowledge exchange, we can pave the way towards a more resilient and equitable world. Join us in championing these transformative practices and collectively shaping a better tomorrow for all.
