NOVATERRA
NOVATERRA
NOVATERRA
- Funding entity: European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation program
- Period: From 1/10/2020 to 30/9/2024
- Program: European Union Research and Innovation Program H2020 .
- Project coordinator: Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentarias (IRTA)
- Website: https://www.novaterraproject.eu/
A little bit about the project:
NOVATERRA is a European project that develops practical and innovative solutions to reduce the use and impact of plant protection products in vineyards and olive groves. Its objective is to offer real, efficient, and economically viable alternatives that will allow progress towards more sustainable and resilient agriculture in the Mediterranean area.
Main objective
To significantly reduce dependence on chemical pesticides through the development and integration of new agronomic strategies, while ensuring productivity, crop quality and economic viability for farmers.
Lines of action
I. Alternative products and biological control
NOVATERRA researches and combines biopesticides, natural extracts, semiochemicals, entomopathogenic fungi and other biological control tools, creating non-synthetic solutions capable of replacing or complementing traditional plant protection products.
II. Smart agriculture to optimize applications
The project incorporates precision agriculture technologies, such as sensors, digital platforms, and decision support systems, which allow for highly accurate adjustments to application rates and timing. The result: more efficient treatments, reduced inputs, and less environmental impact.
Advanced soil management and biodiversity enhancement techniques are introduced, including mechanical weed control, biostimulants, plant cover crops, and strategies that strengthen the health of the agricultural ecosystem and reduce pest and disease pressure.
- Results and benefits
- Proven reduction in the use of pesticides in olive groves and vineyards without loss of yield.
- Validation on real estates in several Mediterranean countries.
- Development of digital tools and practical protocols for their adoption by farmers.
- Environmental, economic and social assessment that guarantees the viability of the proposed solutions.
- Greater protection of biodiversity, soil, and consumer health.