Great success for the conference “2024: One hundred years since the Kobervitz conferences: what truths for biodynamic viticulture?” organized by Demeter Italyassociation of biodynamic producers, distributors and processors, during the 56th edition of Vinitaly in Verona.
At the conference, moderated by Giovanni Buccheri, Director of Demeter Italiathe oenologist and biologist participated as speakers Michele Lorenzetti and the producers Elisabetta Foradori and Enrico Maria Casarotti.
A comparison to highlight the importance of the biodynamic method in viticulture (and in agriculture in general) to deal with today’s environmental situation. Rudolf Steiner, 100 years ago, had given answers to the farmers of the time, but the same could be provided to the current ones – perhaps now more than ever – precisely because those who cultivate must deal with new threats, such as climate change.
In fact, as Michele Lorenzetti states: “According to Re-Soil Foundation (2023 data), in Italy 28% of arable land has been lostWhile 68% suffered a loss of more than 60% of its natural organic presence. Furthermore, 25% of soils in Europe are below the minimum threshold for essential nutrients for plants.” “Biodynamic agriculture” continues Lorenzetti “should be accessible to everyone, even though his texts are sometimes complex. My goal is to promote a cognitive culture that allows anyone to read Steiner’s writings and understand his precious intentions. We have developed a practical method that offers tangible results, capable of generating biodiversity at all levels, including socially. An example of this is the collaboration between farmers and also between collaborators within the same company, which generate virtuous processes that bring positive repercussions throughout the entire agricultural organism”.
Elisabetta Foradori of the company of the same name in Trentino explains how much it is important the practice of composting: “Our company is not only wine-growing but also includes other food sectors: we have included animals, we process milk and produce vegetables, trying to create that unique circular reality where every living thing interacts, as Steiner hoped. In this system, compost is easy to create, it can be produced autonomously and makes us independent and free.”
According to Enrico Maria Casarotti, of the agricultural company in the Verona area that bears his name, in biodynamics the preparations are substances that encourage life. “Preparations are very important tools within good biodynamic agricultural practices, capable of preserving the environment and rebuilding an ecosystem. With them we can really provide for the improvement of the soil and the vitality of the plant to generate high quality products. In this context, the preparations are very useful means for developing the centrality of the farmer’s role, not only for the care of the land but for their preparation itself, often done in collaboration with other companies”.
The practices of this method, which include composting and preparations (like preparation 500) promote plant and soil health and constitute a valid response to current challenges.
As Giovanni Buccheri, Director of Demeter Italia, states: “Biodynamic agriculture is not just a cultivation method, but a commitment that embraces the environment and the community. The act of Demeter farmers goes beyond simple agricultural practice; it is an essential contribution to society and the health of our planet. Demeter Italia’s participation in Vinitaly with a conference on biodynamic viticulture was fundamental for sharing our experiences and promoting a sustainable vision of agriculture.”
Source: Demeter Press Office
Tags: Vinitaly Demeter Italia celebrates years biodynamics
