The BioTech2Agri project supports olive growers and agri-food SMEs in Slovenia and Italy by introducing biotechnological and nature-based solutions that address challenges in the olive sector.
Across Slovenian Istria, and also in the Karst, Goriška, the Vipava Valley and Goriška Brda, around 2,600 hectares of olive groves are cultivated. Growers face low yields, increasing climate stress, emerging pests, and limited access to applied expertise. A major concern repeatedly highlighted by producers is the unfavourable age structure of olive growers—many are over 70, while younger generations will engage only if olive growing becomes economically viable and supported by practical knowledge.
Within this context, BioTech2Agri focuses on practical, applied solutions for olive production, including:
- Valorisation of olive leaves for the development of natural cosmetic products, creating additional income opportunities
- Soil restoration and water management, including water-retention trenches, fungal-dominated composts and compost teas, aimed at increasing humus content, soil biodiversity, and drought resilience
- Algal technologies, including algae cultivation using wastewater, supporting circular approaches in agriculture
Several olive growers have already joined the project, demonstrating strong interest from practice.
By providing targeted support, with olive growers, BioTech2Agri contributes to testing and adopting approaches that can support innovation, knowledge transfer, and diversification in olive growing, while helping create conditions that may also be more attractive for younger generations entering the sector.
