CARBON 4 SOIL QUALITY PLUS

The CARBON 4 SOIL QUALITY PLUS (C4SQ+) project is a pilot project under the Interreg Euro-MED program that builds on the results of the CARBON 4 SOIL QUALITY project. Its main objective is to test and evaluate carbon farming practices in various Mediterranean agroecological conditions and to support their wider adoption to improve soil quality, increase soil organic matter content, and contribute to climate change mitigation. The project builds on the knowledge, methodologies, and recommendations developed during the study phase and translates them into practice through the implementation of pilot activities in seven Mediterranean countries. The partners will test various carbon farming techniques under real-world conditions, monitor their effects on soil quality and carbon sequestration, and evaluate their environmental, social, and economic impacts. Special attention will be given to developing and testing carbon farming models, establishing living labs, engaging farmers, advisors, and other stakeholders, and developing practical decision-support tools. Based on the results of the pilot activities, the project will develop a catalog of carbon farming techniques for the Mediterranean region, an online decision-support tool, guidelines for socio-economic models of carbon farming, educational materials, and a transnational strategy for the wider adoption of carbon farming in the Mediterranean region. The project brings together nine partners from Slovenia, Italy, Greece, Spain, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Cyprus. The Agricultural Institute of Slovenia is participating in the project as the lead partner and is responsible for coordinating project activities, communication, and the implementation of pilot activities in Slovenia.