BOLZANO. Ten years after the publication of the FAO study on family apple farming in South Tyrol, the South Tyrolean fruit sector takes stock. The updated report, presented today as part of Interpoma, impressively shows how sustainability, innovation and social responsibility have contributed to the success of the ”South Tyrol Model”. The councilor Luis Walcher he underlined, in his greetings, the close collaboration between all the players in the fruit sector.
“The cultivation of apples in South Tyrol demonstrates in an exemplary way how innovation and tradition can be harmonized. The close collaboration between all parties involved creates a sustainable model that also finds attention beyond regional borders,” he declared. The report highlights the great progress made by the South Tyrolean fruit sector in recent years. “With today’s publication we can clearly demonstrate how advanced the South Tyrolean apple sector has been in recent years. The new report is not only a balance sheet, but also a basis for facing future challenges together, with innovation, sustainability and a clear focus on quality”, he underlined Georg Kösslerpresident of the Alto Adige Apple Consortium.
In addition to economic progress, the report shows how resilience and diversity have become strengths of the sector. The professor Christian Fischer of the Free University of Bolzano underlined: “The apple sector in South Tyrol is more resilient than the rest of agriculture. It focuses on quality rather than quantity, offers variety in the field of production and consumption and has maintained or increased prices liquidation over the years. Added to this are important social achievements that further strengthen the Alto Adige Model in this area.”
How does collaboration among stakeholders impact the success of apple farming in South Tyrol according to Luis Walcher?
Interview with Luis Walcher: Championing the South Tyrolean Model in Apple Farming
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Luis. Thank you for joining us today. It’s been ten years since the FAO’s initial study on family apple farming in South Tyrol. Can you share what prompted this updated report and what key findings stood out to you?
Luis Walcher: Good afternoon! Yes, absolutely. The updated report was a necessary undertaking to assess how much we’ve evolved over the last decade. One standout finding is the impressive integration of sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility within our fruit sector, which is now often referred to as the “South Tyrol Model.”
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating! You mentioned sustainability – could you elaborate on how the South Tyrolean fruit sector incorporates sustainable practices into apple farming?
Luis Walcher: Certainly! Sustainability in apple farming here isn’t just about organic practices; it encompasses a wide range of initiatives. We focus on reducing chemical use, promoting biodiversity, and conserving water. Additionally, many farms have implemented renewable energy sources and efficient waste management systems, showcasing an integrated approach to sustainability.
Time.news Editor: Your mention of innovation is also intriguing. How does innovation play a role in the success of apple farming in South Tyrol?
Luis Walcher: Innovation is at the heart of our practices. We actively promote the use of modern technologies, such as precision farming tools that allow us to monitor soil and crop health more effectively. This means we can increase yields while minimizing environmental impacts. Furthermore, innovations in marketing and distribution have also enhanced our ability to reach broader markets while maintaining quality.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a very collaborative effort among various stakeholders. Can you discuss the role of collaboration in this model?
Luis Walcher: Absolutely! Collaboration is essential. From farmers to researchers, and between cooperatives and governmental bodies, everyone is invested in our mutual success. This close cooperation allows us to share knowledge, improve practices, and address challenges collectively. The results speak for themselves, as we’ve gained recognition beyond our regional borders, inspiring even other countries.
Time.news Editor: What is the broader impact of the “South Tyrol Model” on the global fruit sector?
Luis Walcher: The South Tyrol Model demonstrates that it is possible to balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility. By sharing our experiences and strategies through platforms like Interpoma, we encourage other regions to adopt similar practices, promoting sustainable agriculture globally. It reinforces a message: success and sustainability can go hand in hand!
Time.news Editor: Looking forward, what do you envision for the future of apple farming in South Tyrol?
Luis Walcher: I believe the future looks very promising. We’ll continue to innovate and adapt to changing climate conditions while upholding our commitment to sustainability. I envision even closer partnerships with educational institutions and global organizations, which will enable us to lead transformative changes in agriculture. Together, we can ensure that our beautiful landscape remains fruitful and vibrant for generations to come.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much, Luis, for sharing your insights. It’s inspiring to see how South Tyrol is paving the way for a sustainable future in agriculture.
Luis Walcher: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss our efforts and successes in apple farming.