Monte Pisano Conference Explores FRAMEwork and Future Opportunities

On a warm Friday morning in late June, the historic Monte Pisano Oil Mill in Vicopisano opened its doors to a gathering of researchers, local producers, and community leaders. It was an event that aimed to strengthen connections across various sectors. Explore the event program in English and Italian here.

Courtesy © Frantoio del Monte Pisano Vicopisano

Activities and Networks of Monte Pisano Between Present and Future

The conference titled "Activities and Networks of Monte Pisano Between Present and Future" brought together diverse local actors. They were united by a shared goal: preserving and revitalizing the Monte Pisano territory. This event was organized by project partner Scuola Sant'Anna and Taskscape in collaboration with local organizations and initiatives. It was part of the 'Recodo In Real Life' series, associated with the project's online knowledge, action, and legacy platform, Recodo.

Previous Events and Highlights

Previous events included webinars on key resources and topic areas, along with a hybrid congress.

On June 27, 2025, stakeholders from multiple sectors gathered to represent various aspects of the Monte Pisano territory. Project researchers from the Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies mingled with hands-on olive producers and millers. Local government representatives from municipalities like Calci connected with community cooperatives and business networks. The Natural History Museum offered cultural and educational insights. Specialized entities, such as the Monte Pisano Forest Community and the Agroecology Office, shared their expertise on sustainable land management.

Engaging Consumers and Professionals

The multi-sectoral gathering attracted consumers interested in olive oil quality, territorial development professionals, and community leaders focused on sustainable tourism and cultural heritage preservation. This diversity highlighted the conference’s holistic approach to addressing the challenges facing Monte Pisano. The collaborative networks formed during the event were essential for driving progress.

As the day unfolded, Camilla Moonen from the Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies welcomed participants. She introduced FRAMEwork's activities and results. This opening set a collaborative tone for the conference. What followed was a series of presentations, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities confronting this unique Tuscan region.

Olive Oil and Sustainable Practices

Val Graziosa Cluster Farmer Francesco Elter presented on the 'Monti Pisani Olive Road.' His emphasis on the mantra that "good oil comes from good olives" resonated with many. This statement underscored the importance of nurturing natural resources and ensuring quality throughout the production process.

Another key moment came from Fabio Mencarelli of the Municipality of Calci. He addressed the issue of olive grove abandonment threatening Monte Pisano. His strategies for mitigation sparked animated discussions during coffee breaks, where participants exchanged contacts and innovative ideas.

Payment for Ecosystem Services

Mario Pestarini from the Monti Pisani Business Network concluded the morning's presentations with an introduction to Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes. His talk illustrated a collaborative approach to incentivizing biodiversity production and conservation. Many participants saw how these mechanisms could transform how the community values and protects its natural heritage.

Interactive Working Groups

After a light lunch featuring local products, the conference moved into a more interactive phase. Two working groups engaged deeply with practical solutions. The first group focused on PES as a development tool, while the second aimed to strengthen collaboration among olive oil producers, millers, and consumers.

The insightful exchanges during these sessions emphasized the importance of cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals.

Building Connections for a Sustainable Future

As the day came to a close, a palpable sense of momentum filled the room. The vision of the Forest Community, 'Shared Roots for a Shared Future,' resonated strongly with attendees. Participants left not just with new knowledge but also with concrete connections and evolving plans of action.

Overall, the conference demonstrated that Monte Pisano's future lies in collective efforts. The strength of its networks will connect tradition with innovation, research with practice, and communities with their landscapes.

Don’t forget to follow the activities of the region's Farmer Cluster seeded by FRAMEwork via Recodo and its YouTube channel.

The conference serves as a crucial milestone in the ongoing collaboration among various sectors within Monte Pisano. It paves the way for future opportunities, ensuring that local heritage is preserved for generations to come. By connecting diverse stakeholders, the event highlighted the potential for innovative solutions in the face of challenges like climate change and economic shifts. With continued partnership and commitment, a sustainable future for Monte Pisano is indeed possible.