In the places where we live and grow up, where evolution seeks innovative solutions while the fields are still practicing the practices of previous generations, there is a solution that goes beyond the ordinary. MACC-SOIL is a canvas where the tradition of experienced farmers joins with cutting-edge technology for a common purpose: non-negotiable soil health.
Case Study: how a Rural Area
The Live Labs act as a catalyst, promoting sustainability, innovation and community involvement throughout the supply chain. Unlike closed research laboratories, a Living Lab can be a rural area that functions as a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment that fosters collaboration between experts from fields such as technology, design, psychology, sociology and environmental sciences. This diversity takes a holistic approach to problem solving, ensuring practical solutions are seamlessly integrated into people’s lives.
Think of a rural area equipped with smart infrastructure, including devices that communicate and exchange information with each other via the cloud (IoT – Internet of Things), sensors, weather stations and other data analysis tools, where agricultural practices, cultivation and harvest are monitored in real time.
Where agriculture meets innovation
Incorporating Precision Agriculture technologies, MACC-SOIL utilizes cutting-edge tools such as drones, sensor networks and precision techniques to optimize soil quality and agricultural practices. This approach aims to improve resource efficiency, minimise environmental impacts and improve overall productivity in various soil-related sectors.
The live lab focuses on Smart Agriculture practices as an example, exploring the integration of automation, robotics and artificial intelligence. It includes the implementation of autonomous tractors, robotic harvesting systems and crop management strategies using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve efficiency and reduce operational demands.
Sustainable development is the central theme, with the living laboratory promoting and testing modern sustainability practices and methods such as organic farming, agroecology and regenerative agriculture, with a particular focus on maintaining soil health, controlled water use and promoting biodiversity.
From the farm, to the future
Acting as an educational hub, MACC-SOIL can conduct specialised workshops, training programmes and outreach initiatives aimed at disseminating knowledge on issues such as sustainable agriculture and food practices. Partnerships with local communities, schools and rural development agencies enhance the educational approach.
Data analysis and decision support systems have a crucial role, generating knowledge about the soil and agricultural production. These systems are designed to help farmers make informed decisions, optimise resource allocation and improve overall performance.
One for all and all for one
Collaboration with research institutions, universities, industries and other smaller private sector companies is the hub of how the living laboratory operates, as it leverages collective expertise and resources, strengthening the holistic management ecosystem.
By addressing challenges and supporting policies that promote sustainable and innovative practices, the living lab can actively engage with policy makers. This commitment ensures a supportive regulatory environment for the adoption of new technologies and sustainable practices.
MACC presents the innovative MACC – SOIL initiative
The Mediterranean Centre for Agri-Food Capabilities (MACC) IKE as the manager of the new member of European Living Labs, presents the innovative MACC-SOIL initiative designed for the region of Crete and the Mediterranean in general. It is a holistic and collaborative approach to finding solutions and ways to address soil degradation problems.
The MACC-SOIL initiative is a revolution in soil management practices with a holistic approach that will lead to sustainable health, resilience and – ultimately – to the preservation of the environment in the region of Crete and the Southeast Mediterranean in general.