Project Overview
Project Reference: 2021-1-PT01-KA220-VET-000033188
Status: Completed
Duration: January 1, 2022 – July 31, 2024
EU Grant: €362,494
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Cooperation Partnerships in Vocational Education and Training
Countries Involved: Portugal, Italy, Greece, Spain, Turkey
Background
Climate change is one of the biggest threats facing our planet. It affects agriculture, especially in Mediterranean regions where long dry summers and heavy autumn rains cause soil erosion and land degradation. Countries like Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Turkey face serious challenges due to poor soil quality and past agricultural practices. Many smallholder farmers are struggling with reduced crop yields and rising costs. However, climate-smart agriculture offers hope. It can help improve soil health, increase productivity, and capture carbon from the air, making farming more sustainable.
Objectives
The main goal of this project was to support smallholder and young farmers in adopting climate-smart agricultural methods. It aimed to provide practical training and digital resources to help them adapt to environmental changes. The project also targeted policy-makers and local organisations to encourage better land use and environmental planning. By sharing knowledge and best practices, the project sought to promote a fair, green future where even the most remote communities can thrive.
Implementation
The project included four major results. First, a theoretical handbook on sustainable farming was created. Second, a collection of case studies showed how different regions use climate-smart techniques. Third, an innovative blended learning course was developed, combining online, group, and hands-on learning. Finally, the CarboNostrum HUB—an online platform—was launched to bring together all the materials, tools, and results. These resources are designed for both learners and professionals and are available in several languages.
Key Activities
Partners worked closely together through meetings, trainings, and testing activities. They created learning materials, organised workshops and webinars, and built a digital learning platform. The course covered key topics like carbon storage in soil, desertification, sustainable land use, and the value of traditional farming knowledge. Each partner country contributed examples and tools that reflect local conditions and practices. Communication campaigns and social media also helped share the project’s results widely.
Results
The project produced high-quality resources that are useful for farmers, students, and environmental educators. The handbook and case studies explain real-life challenges and solutions in climate-smart agriculture. The blended course equips learners with practical skills they can apply directly. The CarboNostrum HUB is an engaging and accessible tool that hosts all project results and promotes self-directed learning. These tools are free to access and can support long-term learning even after the project ends.
Impact
This project has empowered local communities to take action against climate change. Farmers now have tools and knowledge to improve their land sustainably. Young people have more career opportunities in green farming. Policymakers can use the project’s results to guide decisions. Thanks to its broad reach and practical focus, the project helps shape a more resilient future. It also supports the goals of the European Green Deal and helps Europe meet its climate targets.
