SPIN-FERT project / Horizon Europe

sustainable soil management for a green future

2024-2027

Art & Science Node is a member of SPIN-FERT Consortium, the project, funded by the European Commission under Horizon Europe, aims to revolutionize soil management in horticulture. It transforms agricultural by-products into high-quality fertilizers and peat-free substrates, promoting eco-friendly farming. SPIN-FERT integrates biostimulants and agro-industrial wastes to enhance soil fertility, employing AI-supported soil assessment tools, lab-on-chip devices, automated image analysis, and precision irrigation systems. The project develops policy recommendations for sustainable practices and fosters collaboration among 20 partners across Europe. Through community engagement and knowledge transfer, SPIN-FERT promotes healthy soil management for a greener, sustainable future.

ASN leads dissemination, communication, and exploitation in the SPIN-FERT project under Work Package 1 (WP1). It ensures innovative solutions are effectively communicated to stakeholders, professionals, policy makers and general public raising awareness about the need to improve and sustain soil health and to introduce sustainable practices for climate change mitigation.

Art & Science Node uses conventional and creative tools including art to democratise scientific knowledge and promote SPIN-FERT  innovations for environmental and societal benefits.

Kick-off meeting of SPIN-FERT_ Riccione June 2024

We are excited to share the highlights of the SPIN-FERT project kick-off meeting, which marked the beginning of our collaborative journey towards enhancing soil health and sustainable horticultural practices across Europe.

We started with the visit to Enomondo aligning with the Caviro Group’s circular philosophy, converting waste into energy and natural fertilizers for agricultural use, replenishing vineyards where it all begins. Then we visit facilities and experimenting fields of Rinova Group and finished our first day trip by dinner at the Agriturismo La Graziosa,

The second day, July 20th, featured presentations by key figures in the agriculture field. Daniela Radu discussed Horizon Europe and project support, while Eligio Malusa introduced the SPIN-FERT structure. Steve Quarri presented the “Hort2thefuture” project focusing on wood fiber-based growing media. After lunch, administrative topics were covered, followed by discussions on coordination, gender, and ethics. Work packages 1, 2, and 3 leaders defined their objectives within the SPIN-FERT project. Joanna Hoffman highlighted communication and training in WP1, Bartek Tylkowski focused on biostimulants in WP2, and Maria Grazia Tommassini outlined agronomic testing in WP3.

July 21st resumed with Silvia Buzzi on sustainability, and Loredana Canfora on soil quality assessment tools. WHO? highlighted peat-free substrates’ benefits, and Eligio Malusa wrapped up with a summary. The meeting set the stage for innovative soil management practices in Europe within the SPIN-FERT project. Stay tuned for updates on our progress!