Banca dati dei progetti dei PSR
Organic Food Processing Business
Summary
Cascina Caremma in Lombardia is a farm distinguished for its commitment to mitigate the negative impact of agricultural activity on the environment. EAFRD assistance has been used towards diversification of agricultural activity.
Background
The farmer is a committed ecologist. The farm is located within a protected area and this has convinced the farmer to use resources in an environmentally friendly way. For the farm this approach was successful and has brought excellent results in terms of income growth and employment (it currently has 10 permanent employees as well as seasonal workers). The farm also runs a SPA and a shop selling the products of the farm, offers educational programmes to schools, and produces renewable energy.
Objective
The project has aimed to: i) diversify agricultural activity; ii) establish a short closed chain within the farm and iii) promote sustainable use of resources and enhance local production.
Main activities
The main project activity has been the construction of a multipurpose plant for processing fruit, pasta, bread and cheese.
Results & Benefits
The establishment of the new plant has resulted to the processing of organically grown local varieties of agricultural products, short closed chain of processing local products within the farm, and increased production and sales of local products. The project’s wider benefits have included environmental benefits related to the low negative impacts to the environment from the farm’s activities and energy efficiency through the use of renewable energy.
Lessons learnt
Close links between agriculture and the environment are achieved through the re-introduction of autochthonous species that are grown and sold in the farm and the application of organic farming methods. A short closed production chain within the farm ensures locally grown products are promoted.
Project location and other information
Lombardia (Milan district)
Region
Lombardia
RDP Territory
Lombardia
Total project cost (€)
260 000
EAFRD contribution (€)
91 000
Private contribution (€)
169 000
Project website
Contact name
Gabriele Corti
Languages for contact
Italian
At a glance
Country
Italy
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers, Other
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
01/03/2010
End Date:
31/03/2011
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
121. Modernisation of agricultural holdings
Keywords:
Organic farming, Quality of life, Landscape, Diversity, Local food
Last update
06/06/2011