Baza danych projektów PROW
Better Market Adaptation for Organically Grown Citrus Fruit
Summary
This Spanish project improved the handling, packaging and marketing of organically grown citrus fruit in an area of natural beauty. It upgraded ripening, refrigeration, transport and labelling processes and it encouraged better market adaptation.
Background
The El-Arbuli company was born out of the need of small and medium-sized farmers to cooperate. The common objective is to improve the marketing of the fruit and vegetables they produce - meaning that farms can be kept profitable and not abandoned. The farmers involved in this project are committed to preserving the fragile ecosystem of the Almanzora river which is threatened by the introduction of agricultural practices that hamper biodiversity, pollute the soil and aggravate erosion processes.
Objective
The main objective of the project is to improve the handling, packaging and marketing of organically grown citrus fruit. The specific objectives identified were: i) to increase and improve production capacity, marketing and competitiveness of local production; ii) to better protect the fruit that are sensitive to attack by certain insects; and iii) to rationalise product management.
Main activities
To achieve its objectives, the company initiated reforms to guarantee stock availability during the production process and has adapted its de-greening chamber to reduce the threat of Ceratitis capitata, the Mediterranean fruit fly, a species capable of causing extensive damage to fruit crops. It has also invested in a new footbridge for improved internal transport capacity and in new types of packaging and redesigned labelling for its citrus products.
Results & Benefits
The project’s primary achievement has been to increase the quantity and quality of products by adapting production processes to market demands. It has also provided environmental benefits by helping to keep the river valley green by encouraging organic farming. The investment has contributed to the improvement of skills – both for farmers and workers in the company - while the growth in production capacity has helped to generate new jobs.
Lessons learnt
The fact that the project was led by a recognised cooperative in the area helped to promote the cooperative movement and the associative spirit. By encouraging organic farming practices and maintenance of the ecosystem and biodiversity in the Almanzora Valley, the project has provided a good model for the creation of sustainable and healthier rural communities.
Project location and other information
Muncipality of Arboleas in the valley of Almanzora, Province of Almería.
Region
Andalucía
RDP Territory
Andalucía
Total project cost (€)
256 309
EAFRD contribution (€)
91 142
National contribution (€)
30 381
Private contribution (€)
134 786
Project website
Contact name
Ginés Garcia Gómez
Telephone
+34 950 431 753 – +34 639 211 666
Languages for contact
Spanish
At a glance
Country
Spain
Final beneficiary type
Producer groups
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
16/11/2010
End Date:
30/09/2011
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
123. Adding value to agricultural and forestry products
Keywords:
Organic farming, Packaging, Fruit, Labelling, Marketing
Last update
12/11/2012