Italy 2023 - Turin Agroforestry

PROJECT REPORT

ITALY 2023 - TURIN AGROFORESTRY

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Dearfriend,

Thanks to your support, a total of 3,000 trees were planted to restore 2 hectaresoflandinItaly.

Planting trees in areas that have been degraded or deforested helps the environment by accelerating and assuring the re-establishment of healthy forests. Through reforestation, the canopy is restored, ecosystems are made whole,andbiodiversitycanthrive.

None of this would be possible without you. On behalf of everyone at One Tree Planted,thankyou!

What follows is a report outlining the project you supported in Italy. I hope you enjoyreadingitandtrulyfeeltheimpactyouhavemade.

OVERVIEW

The objective of the Italy 2023 - Turin Agroforestry project was to enhance climate change resilience at two urban/peri-urban sites, Orti Generali and Cascina Falchera, through strategic tree planting. By leveraging nature's innate capacity to self-recover in response to challenges, this project aimed to bolster regional biodiversity, empower the local community, and foster sustainability within the community and surrounding environment. Through targeted tree planting initiatives, this project worked to create resilient ecosystems that can thrive in the face of changing environmental conditions, while also promoting community engagementandenvironmentalstewardship.

TREES PLANTED

VOLUNTEERS INVOLVED

TREE SPECIES

The species selected for this agroforestry project in Piedmont, Italy offer a variety of benefits, contributing to forest adaptation and resilience. The resultant diversificationwillpromoteahealthierecosystemandcascadingbenefits,suchas:

Increased Biodiversity: The mix of fruit trees (plum, pear, apple, cherry, etc.), nut trees (hazelnut, walnut), berry bushes (currant, elderberry), and other understory species (mulberry, serviceberry) attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, promotes healthy soil through nitrogen fixation (especially legumes like hazelnut), and provides valuable food sources for wildlife and humans, as wellashabitatforvariousbirdsandanimals.

Improved Soil Health and Fertility: Fruit trees with deep root systems help break up compacted soil and improve drainage. Decomposing leaves from these trees add organic matter to the soil, enhancing its fertility and water retention. Trees and shrubs like hazelnut and sea buckthorn enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen from the air and converting it into a usable form for plants, benefitingtheentiresystem.

Microclimate Regulation: Trees provide shade and regulate temperatures, creating a more favorable microclimate for other plants and reducing stress duringhotanddryperiods.ThiswillbeparticularlybeneficialduringPiedmont’s increasing hot and dry summer months, reducing water evaporation and soil erosion.

Erosion control and water infiltration: The understory species create a layer that contributes reducing erosion by helping to hold soil in place — and allows rainwatertoinfiltratemoreeffectively,benefitingoverallecosystemhealth.

SPECIES PLANTED THE MOST THROUGH THIS PROJECT

Pear (Pyrus communis and varieties)

Apple (Malus domestica and varieties)

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana)

Field maple (Acer campestre)

Currants (Ribes spp.)

Hornbeam (Ostrya caripinifolia)

TREE SPECIES COMPLETE LIST

Atotalof3,000plantswereplantedatOrtiGenerali(754)andCascinaFalchera (2,246)sitesinNovemberandDecember2023:

Walnut (Juglans regia)

Black Poplar (Populus nigra)

Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium)

Common Pear (Pyrus communis)

Serviceberry (Sorbus domestica)

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana)

Mulberry (Morus spp.)

Currant (Ribes spp.)

Emperor Apple (Malus domestica 'Imperatore')

Florina Apple (Malus domestica 'Florina')

Limoncello Lemon (Citrus limon

'Limoncello')

Annurca Apple (Malus domestica 'Annurca')

Renetta and Gray of Torrana Apple (Malus domestica 'Renetta e Grigia di Torrana')

German Medlar (Mespilus germanica)

Kaki (Diospyros kaki)

Quince (Cydonia oblonga)

Cotogno Pear (Pyrus cotogna)

Decana Pear (Pyrus communis 'Decana')

Passagrassana Pear (Pyrus communis 'Passagrassana')

Santa Maria Pear (Pyrus communis 'Santa Maria')

Bella di Giugno Pear (Pyrus communis

'Bella di Giugno')

Sungiant Apricot (Prunus armeniaca 'Sungiant')

Pisana Plum (Prunus domestica 'Pisana')

Formosa Plum (Prunus domestica

'Formosa')

Stanley Plum (Prunus domestica 'Stanley')

Coscia Monaca Plum (Prunus domestica

'Coscia Monaca')

Santa Rosa Plum (Prunus salicina 'Santa Rosa')

Burlat Cherry (Prunus avium 'Burlat')

Ferrovia Cherry (Prunus avium 'Ferrovia')

Pomegranate (Punica granatum)

Vigna Peach (Prunus persica 'Vigna')

Mirabolano Plum (Prunus cerasifera)

Almond (Whole Shell) (Prunus amygdalus

'Guscio Intero')

Ash (Fraxinus excelsior)

Elderberry (Sambucus)

Purple Willow (Salix purpurea)

Hackberry (Celtis australis)

Hop Hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia)

Field Maple (Acer campestre)

European Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)

Red Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea)

Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Dog Rose (Rosa canina)

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)

Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides)

TREE SPECIES IDENTIFICATION & USE

Pear tree, scientifically known as Pyrus communis, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and parts of Asia. In its native range, including Italy, the pear tree thrives in diverse habitats ranging from woodlands to open fields. It can reach heights of 15-20 meters and features oval to elliptical-shaped leaves with finely serrated margins that turnyelloworreddish-purpleinautumnbeforefalling.Duringspring,thetreeproduces clusters of white flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing toecosystemhealth.

Pear trees play a crucial role in agroforestry and natural ecosystems by providing valuable ecological services such as soil stabilization, erosion control, and enhancement of biodiversity. They serve as important habitat trees, offering nesting sites and shelter for various bird species and small mammals. The fruits produced by pear trees are also consumed by wildlife, further supporting local biodiversity. In this project, Pyrus communis was extensively planted due to its adaptability to the local climate and soil conditions. Italy's temperate climate and fertile soils provide an ideal environment for pear cultivation, and the tree's resilience, disease resistance, and productivity make it well-suited for sustainable agroforestry practices. What’s more, these trees not only contribute to biodiversity conservation, but they also bring economic benefits through fruit production, supporting the livelihoods of farmers in theprojectarea.

Hazelnut, scientifically known as Corylus avellana, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and western Asia, including Italy. It typically grows as a multi-stemmed shrub, reaching heights of 3-8 meters. Hazelnut features rounded, toothed leaves that turn golden-yellowinautumn,addingtoitsaestheticappeal.Itsbarkstartsoffsmoothand grayish-brown, developing fissures and becoming more gnarled with age. During late winter and early spring, hazelnut produces wind-pollinated catkins that give rise to ediblenutsenclosedinhusks,avaluableresourceforbothwildlifeandpeople.

In agroforestry and natural ecosystems, hazelnut plays a crucial role in soil stabilization, erosion prevention, and soil fertility improvement as a pioneer species. Thespeciesprovideshabitatandfoodforvariouswildlifespecies,contributingtolocal biodiversity. Similar to pear, hazelnut was planted widely due to its adaptability to the local climate and soil conditions. Italy's temperate climate and diverse landscapes provide ideal conditions for hazelnut cultivation, which boasts an ability to thrive in various habitats. Along with its ecological benefits, hazelnut contributes to soil health and biodiversity conservation, and provides valuable food resources for both wildlife andcommunitiesintheprojectarea.

THE CONSTRUCTION OF CITIES INVOLVES TRANSFORMING PERI-URBAN AREAS INTO SETTINGS WHERE NEW AGRICULTURAL SKILLS ARE DEVELOPED AND LIVING SPACES ARE CREATED TO HARNESS NATURE'S FULL POTENTIAL.

YOUR IMPACT ON THE MAP

Thefirstagroforestrysitewasimplementedontheedgeof OrtiGenerali,aspartof a wider collaborative project working to transform neglected urban spaces into thriving community gardens. Through a long-term process, this innovative project brought together associations, gardeners, and residents of Mirafiori to create a model for sustainable urban agriculture. Orti Generali offers a vibrant space for individuals, families, associations, and schools to connect with nature and learn valuable skills. The over 150 gardens, nestled within a riverside park on the banks of the Sangone stream, provide fertile ground for hands-on experience in organic farming, horticulture, and rural work. Educational workshops and practical training coursesfurtherenrichthelearningexperience.

The second agroforestry site was implemented at Cascina Falchera, which serves as a wider vibrant research center and a community hub focused on sustainability. It fosters collaboration among citizens, organizations, and local governments to tackle environmental challenges and social issues. The area offers a variety of activities, including research, education, leisure, and professional experiences related to sustainable practices, social innovation, the rural context, and agri-food chains.

CASCINA FALCHERA

YOUR IMPACT ON THE MAP

Thanks to your support, Orti Generali and Cascina Falchera now boast unique young food forests, ready to flourish and welcome residents and visitors. These forests offer a living testament to sustainable practices and community engagement.

While the sites are distinct, innovative projects, our partner on the ground is supporting them in fostering social inclusion, education, and cutting-edge sustainablepracticesthroughtheplantingoftheseuniqueagroforestryspecies.

Orti Generali: Agroforestry project / Food Forest site

DOCUMENTING YOUR IMPACT

Through authentic and informative storytelling, we help donors relate to the people who plant their trees and to the impact they're making for the planet. We share photos, videos, and updates from our global projects across our social media, website, and other media to create a personal connection to the incredible work happeningontheground.

PHOTOS FROM YOUR PROJECT

From this planting collaboration came a dense and poetic experience, punctuated by practical planting moments and pleasant social time amongst the participants. During the two days of planting, more than 800 trees of different types were planted, from fruit trees that will produce food for the camp-goers, to emergent trees to provide the necessary shade and cover for the former, to shrub species useful to the surrounding ecosystem.

It was a very enjoyable experience, both because of the activity itself, rich in lessons for the somewhat more experienced and amateur interested parties, and because of the parentheses that spontaneously formed around the planting activity: constantly observed by the seductive gaze of Monviso, which stands out imposingly from its wonderful snowy backdrop, participation in social moments such as the excellent lunch offered to us or distraction in conversations between the planting of one species and another created very important moments of confrontation and restitution, person to person and person to environment.

At the end of the day, fatigue set in, but at the same time it was easily defeated by the much stronger feeling of fullness and happiness, vibrations we feel when we feel we have done something good. Planting a tree does not just mean planting roots attached to a stem, it means planting a new life creating the possibility of generating more, and thanks to this experience this concept has become even clearer to me.

So thank you to the planting organizations, to my pit mates and neighbors, to the earthworms and to Monviso, it was a great experience!

ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS

The agroforestry project in Turin yielded significant ecological benefits through its focus on environmental sustainability and biodiversity enhancement. All planted species were cultivated organically, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices. Special attention was given to reintroducing trees of old varieties that promote the repopulation of pollinating insects, contributing to the restoration of vital ecological functions. By fostering habitats conducive to pollinators, including beesandbutterflies,theprojectbothboostedpollinatorpopulationsandfacilitated increased species diversity and biomass. This, in turn, enhances soil structure and microbialactivity,promotingoverallecosystemhealthandresilience.

Moreover, the project contributes to carbon sequestration, a critical component of climate change mitigation. The strategically planted trees and diverse vegetation play a vital role in capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thereby mitigating the effects of greenhouse gases. Additionally, the planted trees create a natural sanctuary for local wildlife species, including mammals such as Scottish cows in Orti Generali's territories, birds, reptiles, and other fauna. By supporting wildlife populations and fostering biodiversity, the project underscores the interconnectedness of ecological systems and the importance of sustainable landmanagementpracticesinurbanenvironments.

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

Over two productive days, our local partner and volunteers planted a diverse selection of fruit trees, forestry trees, and shrubs at Orti Generali and Cascina Falchera. Beyond simply creating new garden plots, these plantings are integral to establishing a balanced and sustainable environment that benefits all members of the community. Residents will soon enjoy the harvest from these trees, while the improved soil health and enriched park environment will have positive ripple effectsthroughouttheneighborhood.

The planting of these young food forests builds upon the success of the ongoing projects at Orti Generali and Cascina Falchera, which have gained acclaim for their collaborative approach involving a wide spectrum of organizations, citizens, and institutions. We extend our gratitude to our partner on the ground for nurturing this valuableconnection.

Orti Generali's blend of social innovation and technological advancements has earned national recognition from Italy's Ministry of Education, University, and Research (MIUR), as well as the City of Turin, for its transformative impact on Smart Cities initiatives. Additionally, ongoing research overseen by Ca' Foscari University of Venice since 2016 underscores the project's commitment to sustainableurbandevelopment.

Cascina Falchera's past as an educational farm is now a springboard for continuous learning and collaboration across social, environmental, energy, and economic spheres. This site has served as a demonstration area for the European Commission's prestigious New European Bauhaus initiative since 2022, highlighting its role as a catalyst for innovative, sustainable solutions in urban regeneration.

VOLUNTEERS TRAINED 100 JOBS SUPPORTED 10 WOMEN INVOLVED 40

AND INVOLVED IN PLANTING ACTIVITIES

BOTH AT THE MANAGEMENT LEVEL AND AS VOLUNTEERS

U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

THIS PROJECT CONTRIBUTED TO THE FOLLOWING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:

WHAT ARE SDGS?

Sustainable development entails seeking out solutions that not only boost the economic outcomes of developing and poorer nations, but also work to limit (or eliminate)ourimpactontheplanet.Treesareonesuchsolution.

From creating jobs and reducing hunger to improving gender equality, cleaning air and water, absorbing carbon, protecting life on land and water, and more, planting treescanaddressall17sustainabledevelopmentgoals.

“Orti Generali and Cascina Falchera’s agroforestry projects are more than experimental sites. They're incubators, where citizens can actively participate and shape a sustainable future. Thanks to our dedicated local partner and your contribution, we've forged a valuable connection with these two unique realities. Through collaboration, we're supporting a shared vision for a more sustainable future and empowering local citizens to become active participants in this transformative journey. “

Meghan Danny Global Projects Support Specialist

Marika Luiati Project Manager Europe