Syntropic Farming at La Loma Viva

La Loma Viva is pioneering the Syntropic Farming practice of Ernst Gotsch in a Mediterranean/ semi arid climate setting.

In Brazil, Ernst has successfully demonstrated that degraded land can be rehabilitated into abundant, edible forest systems, with multiple ecological benefits. This is a radical new approach to agriculture, using natural processes to create “agro-ecocsytems”.

At his home in Bahia, on a large scale Ernst´ project even had an effect on changing the local climate and improving water sources. A film called "Life in Syntropy" was made about his work (see link below) and presented at the COP21 Paris.

La Loma Viva was introduced to Ernst in 2016 and has been collaborating with him since then, developing our practice of Syntropic farming in a Mediterranean arid climate.

Multiple layers of densely stacked trees, perennial and annual plants are implemented together, to create forest-like systems, designed to maximise photosynthesis and biomass production. Appropriate species of plants and trees are chosen and planted according to the two main principles of - occupying different strata (Space) and according to their dynamics of succession (Time).

This design, along with selective pruning and management, produces a regenerative farming strategy, creating productive and beautiful agro-ecosystems, with multiple social and environmental benefits.