Multifunctional Olive Agroforestry Systems in the Mediterranean

Multifunctional olive systems in the Mediterranean integrate trees, crops, and livestock to enhance sustainability, combat desertification, and improve soil and water management. Projects like LIVINGAGRO promote agroforestry innovation through cross-border collaboration, supporting practices such as intercropping, rotational grazing, and polyculture with wild asparagus and free-range chickens. These systems boost farm profitability, maintain soil fertility, and reduce erosion. Climate-resilient olive varieties like Lekkouli and Arvanitoli enhance drought and salinity tolerance. Stakeholder engagement, monitoring, and value chain development—including fair trade and ecotourism—support smallholders and strengthen rural economies. The approach ensures long-term resilience in olive farming across the Mediterranean.