Actions

The project started on 1st July 2016, has a duration of 3,5 years and is divided in 3 main “technical implementation”. Actions:

1

Technical development of prototypes

The first phase of the project is aimed to produce and make available an innovative machine, one for each viticultural context identified (each one representative of different european viticultural areas) that, thanks to the adoption of variable rate system technology (VRT), will allow to make more rational the use of organin fertilizer in viticultural sector at local, national and European level. This Action is subdivided in two tasks: (1) Fabrication of the basic version of 5 prototypes (one of each different pilot context identified) (2) Improving of the basic version to allow the realisation of the 5 final version of prototypes.

2

Testing of prototypes on viticultural sector

The second phase of the project is aimed to make available a machine which could be utilized in all viticultural European contexts, through activities of testing and checking its good functioning in a large number of situations. The validation carried out on a large surface allows to improve and define technical aspects of the machine, while comparisons tests (setting in each different pilot context) allow to verify its functioning with different modality of soil management. This Action also include a strategy for the “After-Life prototype utilisation Plan”, in order to identify the most interesting stakeholders at European level and areas where the prototype can be used.

3

Development of business strategy for expanding the tested methodology

The third phase of the project is aimed at definition of the intellectual property of the results (IPR) exploitation to ensure a correct and convenient sharing of project results among partners. This Action also includes a plan for the conversion of the new technology tested from the prototype version to a market product.

Monitoring

Method effectiveness evaluation is ensured by a “monitoring” Action of chemical and biological soil parameters, emissions and the quality of wine production. The sustainability of the process is also guaranteed by a continuous assessment of the vineyard greenhouse gas emissions, the environmental impact (Life Cycle Assessment) and socio-economic impact.

The “technical implementation” and “monitoring” Actions will be complemented by an intensive dissemination and communication strategy, in order to increase the stakeholders engagement, from viticultural sector operators (wineries, contractors, agricultural machineries producers) to citizens, schools, scientific community and public authorities.

Results

LIFE VITISOM