In a climate increasingly defined by drought and rising temperatures, a pioneering project in Andalusia is offering practical solutions to enhance the sustainability and resilience of olive cultivation. The initiative centers on a biodegradable dual-layer groundcover film designed to retain soil moisture and alleviate water stress in olive trees.
The project, called BICAPA‑OLEOPROTECT, has been led by Citoliva in collaboration with DNT Agro and the Oleocampo cooperative. Field trials were conducted on five farms in Torredelcampo (Jaén), covering a range of olive farming systems, including dryland, irrigated, intensive, and super-intensive groves.
Results have been promising: the film improved deep soil moisture retention to 75 %, compared to 60 % in bare soils. This improvement means that water remains available in the soil for longer periods, particularly in deeper layers, reducing irrigation needs and helping olive trees maintain better physiological performance under drought conditions.
The film also enhances rainfall infiltration, allowing water to reach depths of up to 40 centimeters, which helps recharge the soil profile more effectively. Another significant advantage is its thermal regulation capability: it buffers daily temperature fluctuations and prevents soil overheating during critical growth periods. This creates a more stable and favorable microclimate for root development and long-term crop health.
From an environmental standpoint, the solution offers a concrete step toward more sustainable resource management. The use of biodegradable materials, combined with the absence of chemical inputs, aligns with the principles of circular agriculture and soil conservation. It also provides effective weed control without relying on herbicides, contributing to a reduction in chemical dependency.
The project has been co-funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and the Andalusian Regional Government through the 2014–2022 Rural Development Programme. It stands as a strong example of how technological innovation can drive meaningful improvements in one of Southern Europe’s most iconic crops.
Source: www.citoliva.es. 17th June 2025
