Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia's Green Path

Leading the Organic Farming Movement

Agricultural heritage and sustainable practices

The island of Sardinia (Italy) accounts for 1.6 million inhabitants. Sardinia has for approximately 0.7 ha of Agricultural Utilized Area (AUA) per capita. This value is much greater than the Italian mean of 0.2 ha of AUA per capita. These figures make of Sardinia Island the ideal place to develop and promote sustainable agricultural and farming practices.

The agri-food sector, with around 46,000 businesses and 75,000 employees, is the first supply chain in Sardinia by incidence of the number of businesses. There are therefore three nuclei within the supply chain: the primary sector, which stands out due to the strong concentration of entrepreneurial initiatives, the food and food industries beverages, less incisive due to the number of companies, but more relevant by average number of employees and commercial activities, represented by two-thirds by retail outlets.

There are also 222 traditional products – niche products with a high gastronomic and cultural value that are not covered by the EU protection but received official recognition under Legislative Decree 173/98.

Sheep milk, cheese and wine represent the most known and exported food products of Sardinia Island. The whole supply chain of these two products is strongly characterized by high standards of sustainability that represents a keydriver for their promotion and trade within some European markets. With one of the highest ratios of agricultural land per capita in Italy, Sardinia is well-positioned to lead in carbon sequestration. Farmers are increasingly adopting techniques like agroforestry, reduced tillage and solar-powered irrigation systems, which cut emissions and enhance soil carbon storage.

Organic and ecological agriculture

Sardinia along with Sicily are among the most important national organic producers and processors. According to SINAB the two island regions represent 18.7% of the national organic area, 5.6% of the organic farms and 16% of national number of organic operators.

Sardinia is embracing sustainable agriculture with a focus on organic methods, water conservation, and renewable energy initiatives. Farmers on the island are adopting chemical-free practices that improve soil health, promote biodiversity, and reduce the environmental impact of farming. Techniques like vertical farming, crop rotation, and the use of solar-powered irrigation systems are transforming Sardinia’s agricultural landscape into a model of sustainability. The island’s agrotourism also plays a significant role, encouraging visitors to engage in traditional farming practices while supporting local economies. By promoting organic certification and integrating innovative technologies, Sardinia is setting a high standard for eco-friendly agriculture and positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development in the Mediterranean region. Sardinia promotes biodiversity by safeguarding indigenous sheep breeds and expanding agroforestry practices across rural areas.

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Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia prioritizes organic cheese, wine, meat, reducing food waste, and sustainable methods.