Carvalhal
Ruben Jorge
Ruben Jorge
Carvalhal
Idanha-A-Nova, Portugal
52 hectares
Type of farm
Agroforestry
Produce
Pistachios and chestnuts
Social structure
Association
Sales channels
Markets and grocery stores
Contact information
The regenerative transition
No chemical inputs
Agroforestry
No harrow usage
Mulching
Transition start date
May 2021
Necessary investments
-
Tree seeds
-
Mower / 20,000 €
How did you learn about regenerative agriculture?
Various books, articles, podcasts and workshops.
New practices
Mulching, residue management, reduced herbicide and fertiliser application, no harrow usage, and increased diversity of tree species.
The benefits of regenerative agriculture
Farm profitability
- 25% reduction in water use
- Soil restoration remunerated
through Carbon+ Credits.
Ecological benefits
-
1.5% increase in organic matter
-
More noticeable presence of biodiversity
-
Reduced soil erosion and increased water retention
Social impact
- Happiness in his job
- Satisfaction when seeing the ecosystem improve
Further expected benefits
“I believe the future of agriculture and forestry lies partly in some sort of basic payment for good practices that benefit wider society.”
How we collaborate
“Without economic incentives, we are limited to philanthropy and time-limited projects. We need to think long-term and act accordingly.”
Although Ruben is eager to embrace regenerative management, his efforts have been constrained by a lack of funding. He’s now utilising our Carbon+ Program to access additional income and overcome his challenges.
Planned additional practices
Cover crops, organic matter application, increased residue management, and agroforestry
Motivation to join the Carbon+ Program
“I believe the future of agriculture lies in true sustainability, which includes the economic as well as the social and environmental.”
How Ruben expects Climate Farmers to support his transition
With information, advice and funding
Earning estimates
Between 5,000€ – 15,000 € per year
(subject to carbon sequestration)
Do you want support for implementing regenerative agriculture?
