The Secret of Microclimate
Farming which is based on Knowledge and Sustainability
The agricultural sector in Greece continues to have a large share in the domestic economic activity, especially when compared with most other EU countries. Furthermore, presents significant opportunities for further growth, which can be illustrated and exploited, with positive effects and correlated with these industries like Food Manufacturing.
The research activities of Agrifarm, in cooperation with scientific institutions and educational institutions, are coming to a time marked by the major changes in the agriculture, with an emphasis on education, sustainability and innovation:
1) System for achieving optimal management of irrigation water. This new practice ensures a reduction of losses and the rational use of irrigation water and participates in the reduction of the production cost and for the protection of the consumer’s health.
2) Checking authenticity and certification of the geographical origin of agricultural products. It is a useful tool to protect the quality of local products which due to their special characters, they have gained a legibility and therefore have a greater added value.
The Secret of Microclimate
MICROCLIMATE – WHAT IT IS – WHY IS IT IMPORTANT – HOW CAN IT POSITIVELY EFFECT THE LOCAL ECONOMY AND FOOD INDUSTRY
Microclimates are local atmospheric zones where the climate differs from the climate of the surrounding area. The main factors in a microclimate are temperature, humidity, light and wind exposure, soil type and topography.
Each microclimate is different, and if used correctly can provide ideal or optimum conditions for plant growth and survival, potentially maximising the yield of the crop.
Through the manipulation and/or creation of these microclimates to gain ideal conditions for growing crops, we can maximise our crop yields and increase our exports and the value of the agriculture sector. Microclimates can allow us to grow crops where the traditional crops have failed, utilising more of the land set aside for farming and stopping soil erosion.
Microclimate assessment and utilization could revitalize the horticulture sector, creating growth in employment and profits. Potential benefits derived from the technology include: increased yield and quality, accurate frost prediction and optimised use of resources (i.e. water, pesticides).
Through knowledge on how to grow plants and understanding how microclimates work through knowing where to grow plants, there are positive economic, environmental and social effects.
Microclimate is the secret ingredient to great recipes!
Greek Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet is rich in fiber; and it is based on consuming healthy plant foods for the body. Legumes, Rice, Pasta, Vegetables and Fruits are the main ingredients, while foods of animal origin are consumed in small quantities.
The antioxidant substances that are abundantly present in the ingredients of Greek Mediterranean diet (vitamins A, E and C, beta-carotene and falconoid (such as wine phenols), phenol acids (fruit, vegetables and olive oil) tackle the oxidation / aging of cells. This is the main secret of the Greek Mediterranean Menu which affects Longevity and Good Health.
Thanks to the variety of foods the Greek Mediterranean diet, there are endless cooking possibilities. Legumes, vegetables and grains in combination with olive oil, olives and aromatic herbs such as oregano, thyme, etc. provide us with a healthy diet with unique flavors and tastes.
