The Tui Care Foundation has launched a transformative initiative to aid sustainable agriculture on Crete and Rhodes.
- Aimed at more than 500 farmers, the initiative seeks to connect them with local food production units and hotels.
- The project emphasises the production of olive oil, wine, avocados, and other local produce.
- A key focus is increasing awareness of Greek gastronomy among hotel staff and visitors.
- The initiative promises to foster sustainability in food production and enhance local community livelihoods.
The Tui Care Foundation has introduced a comprehensive plan to support sustainable agriculture on the Greek islands of Crete and Rhodes. This three-year initiative, known as the ‘field to fork’ programme, aims to connect over 500 local farmers with nearby food production units and hotels, potentially transforming the agricultural landscape and creating new economic opportunities.
Specifically, the project targets the production of traditional Greek products such as olive oil, wine, avocados, and honey. The initiative is expected to benefit 300 farmers on Crete and 200 on Rhodes. By focusing on these key products, the programme seeks to diversify and enhance the offerings of sustainable local foods.
The initiative also prioritises raising awareness about Greek gastronomy. Participating staff will receive tailored training designed to highlight the gastronomic heritage of Greece. These educational efforts aim to empower staff to communicate the benefits of sustainable agriculture, including its role in promoting healthy diets and supporting rural tourism.
The launch event, a workshop on regenerative food in tourism, attracted over 200 participants from various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, and hospitality. Alexander Panczuk, executive director of the Tui Care Foundation, emphasised the programme’s potential to bring ‘transformative change’ and support the transition to regenerative agricultural practices. This change is expected to create a ripple effect that benefits both local communities and the broader tourism sector.
Panczuk expressed that supporting local farmers in transitioning to more sustainable practices is crucial for fostering overall food production sustainability. The initiative intends to build a resilient and regenerative future for Crete and Rhodes, benefiting the regions’ communities as well as enhancing the overall tourism experience for visitors.
The Tui Care Foundation’s initiative stands as a pivotal move towards fostering sustainable agriculture and supporting local Greek farmers.