AlVelAl Launches the First Essence Fund: 42 Kilometres of Aromatic Plants for a Sustainable Future

May 15, 2024

The AlVelAl Association, in collaboration with the Fundación Kareema and the Aland Foundation, has announced the launch of the I Essence Fund. This pioneering initiative aims to plant 42 kilometers of aromatic plants in the AlVelAl territory, a region in the Altiplano of Southeastern Spain.

Objectives of the I Essence Fund

The I Essence Fund seeks to implement regenerative landscape techniques in woody crops, promoting biodiversity and sustainability. Among the selected species are rosemary, lavender, thyme, santolina and sage. These plants not only improve the landscape, but also offer multiple benefits for agricultural farms:

Improved biodiversity and generation of habitats for pollinators that can influence an increase in production
Soil fixation: The roots of aromatic plants help prevent soil erosion.
Additional income: The diversification of farms allows for additional products to be obtained for sale.

The Almendrehesa: An Integrated Productive Agroecosystem

The Esencias Fund not only seeks to plant aromatic plants, but also aims to create an integrated productive agroecosystem known as “Almendrehesa”. This system combines woody crops and/or cereals with hedges and corridors of aromatic plants. Breaking up the monoculture favours biodiversity and encourages the presence of pollinators, essential elements for the health of the crops.

Collaboration between Foundations

The collaboration between Fundación Kareema and the Aland Foundation is fundamental to the success of this project. Together, these entities have agreed to plant more than 40 kilometres of aromatic plants, with a vision of the future that extends until 2032.

Fundación Kareema

Fundación Kareema is dedicated to the recovery, conservation and dissemination of artistic, historical and cultural heritage, with a special focus on the environment and cultural heritage.

Aland Foundation

The Aland Foundation has created the Iberian Network 4 Returns, focused on ecosystem restoration. The AlVelAl territory is the first restoration landscape of this network, marking an important milestone in the ecological restoration of the region.

How to Participate in the I Esencias Fund

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the sustainability and biodiversity of the AlVelAl territory, benefiting both nature and the local economy. People and entities interested in participating in the I Esencias Fund must submit their application before June 10. See the rules.

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