"The Italian Experience in Organic Agriculture and Agroecology" project, a part of the KA1 VET Erasmus+ Program, has been a groundbreaking journey for students from the Professional School for Agriculture “Geo Milev” in Maglizh, Bulgaria. Associazione Most is delighted to present a glimpse into their enriching experiences in Italy.
The students' exploration began with a unique experiment comparing organic and non-organic products including fruits, vegetables, and yoghurt. In Castelletto Ticino, they acted as jurors, evaluating each product based on taste, appearance, price, and packaging. The verdict? Organic products triumphed, often surprisingly not more expensive than their non-organic counterparts.
An innovative activity undertaken by the students was the creation of recycled paper embedded with seeds. This eco-friendly project allows the paper to be planted, transforming into sprouting plants instead of ending up as waste. The specific seeds used remain a delightful surprise, adding an element of anticipation to this sustainable initiative.
A day with the students and teachers of the Istituto L. Cobianchi in Verbania further enriched their experience. They delved into diverse topics like aquaponic installations, microbiological laboratory tests, and the Nidi d’Api (Bee Nests) project. These activities showcased the depth and variety of sustainable agricultural practices.
An interesting learning moment came with a quiz on the percentages of different types of beings on Earth, including livestock, humans, and wild animals. The students from Maglizh realized the staggering impact of livestock on resource consumption, sparking a discussion on the environmental and health implications of excessive meat consumption.
The project was not just about learning; it was about connecting. The students experienced the sense of a larger European family, with surprising encounters like meeting a fellow countryman who was a former Physical Education champion.
Associazione Most extends heartfelt thanks to the hosts, including manager Enza Maselli and friend Giorgio Pierucci, for their invaluable support. The students’ experiences in Castelletto Ticino have not only broadened their understanding of sustainable agriculture but have also sown seeds of awareness about the importance of ecological balance. As they return to Bulgaria, they bring with them not just knowledge but a commitment to sustainable practices and hope to welcome their hosts in Bulgaria in the future.
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