A place also grows through its land and what this land can give rise to. Calabria, for example, is a region rich in biodiversity and possibilities for agricultural development, partially thanks to its elongated shape that allows for various microclimates. Despite this potential, the region has focused heavily on the cultivation of citrus fruits and olives, which, however, suffer greatly from national and international competition; why, then, not focus precisely on biodiversity for a different idea of agricultural development and growth of Calabria in the round? GOEL Società Cooperativa works precisely to grow Calabria in a virtuous way, according to precise ethical and value-based criteria, with the participation of local communities and through social integration: it also does so through the other souls of the Cooperative Group, namely Consorzio Sociale GOEL for responsible tourism, GOEL Bio for organic farms, Made in GOEL for the textile supply chain and Associazione di Volontariato Amici di GOEL to enable everyone to support the cause. The Biodiversi project, which we support, aims to diversify the supply of agricultural products, enhance the biodiversity of the area and offer a model of sustainable tourism through a plurality of interventions. To do this, we support the start-up of two plants, intended for drying and plant extracts, to create an entrepreneurial supply chain that enhances Calabrian raw materials while reducing waste. In addition, the opening of the two laboratories will allow the job placement of 20 people including women, migrants, people with psychiatric disorders, and young people who have come out of shelter communities for minors through training, internships and work grants. A project that brings innovation to the territory, triggering new development projects through virtuous entrepreneurship, and gives opportunities for inclusion to vulnerable and disadvantaged people: because a new growth of Calabria can start from the land. Details Location: Calabria Association: GOEL Società Cooperativa Beneficiaries: 20 vulnerable people employed and all cooperatives working together Contribution: 200,000 euros Period: May 2021 - April 2022
