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Since 2002, organic farming in Mallorca has been on a consistent and continuous rise, as evidenced by the increase to 33,629 hectares in 2022, which accounts for 19.2% of the island’s usable agricultural area, moving closer to the European target of 25% by 2030. This upward trend highlights the significant potential of Mallorca for agricultural transformation, which could have a profound impact on the environment by significantly reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers. The integration of pastures and livestock with wooded areas, a sustainable practice that is traditional in Mallorca, especially on poor soils, is crucial for preserving the island’s distinctive landscape and natural resources. However, challenges such as rural abandonment, drought, and pests like Xylella have led to a loss of more than 50% of Mallorca’s almond trees over the last decade, along with other typical dryland fruit trees, underscoring the urgent need to adopt more resilient and sustainable agricultural practices.

The problem

Agriculture in Mallorca is facing various challenges. The decrease in tree population negatively impacts the environment, increasing erosion, reducing water and CO2 retention, and elevating the risk of fires. Restrictions on the use of ecological treatments and the growing water scarcity due to climate change further complicate the situation. Despite an increase in forest coverage in Mallorca, effective forest management is required to minimize fire risks and promote agricultural and environmental sustainability.

Goals

• Foster organic agriculture growth to reach a 25% European target by 2030 by integrating sustainable practices, such as combining pastures with non-irrigated trees.
• Commit to restoring Mallorca’s distinctive mosaic landscape to adapt to climate change. This involves planting local, less water-intensive varieties that offer environmental and productivity benefits through carbon sequestration.
• Address agricultural abandonment and biodiversity loss by reforesting with drought-resistant fruit trees. This effort aims to improve water retention, minimize erosion, and enhance CO2 capture.
• Implement effective forest management strategies to manage existing biomass and lower forest fire risks, protecting Mallorca’s wooded areas.
• Ensure the care and monitoring of planted trees with the aid of specialized technicians to confirm their survival and positive impact on the ecosystem and organic agriculture.