Direct sales to consumers are the “key” for organic farming to thrive in a sector that is already facing challenges. This was affirmed yesterday by the members of the Tacoronte Ecológico Association of Farmers and Ranchers during their third conference held in the Plaza de La Estación.
The group, which incorporates over a dozen farmers from Los Realejos to La Laguna, showcases their products every Tuesday between 3:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at the municipal market facilities of La Estación.
Having access to this sales venue, provided by the local council, has resulted in a notable increase in their earnings.
This was highlighted during the gathering organised by this collective, which has been promoting its own produce since 2017. It featured contributions from industry experts, including representatives from the University of La Laguna (ULL) and the Cabildo of Tenerife, culminating in a roundtable discussion. Within this context, they articulated the primary challenges they currently encounter, such as water scarcity and generational turnover.
The session commenced with a presentation by Carmen Calzadilla, agricultural extension coordinator for the Cabildo, who discussed agroecological support for potato cultivation. Following her, Ricardo Díaz, marketing lecturer at ULL, delivered a talk titled The short channel, an opportunity for local products.
The third presentation was by Eduardo Fránquiz, an environmental consultant, who spoke on Regenerative agriculture and nutrition for health. Lastly, Iván Guimerá, local Agroecology revitalisation technician at the Centre for Rural Studies and International Agriculture (CERAI) based in Valencia, addressed the topic of sustainable and healthy eating.