Due to large-scale tourism pressure, Ibiza faces challenges in achieving food self-sufficiency, as over 90% of its food is imported. Water resources on the island are scarce, so irrigation systems must be water-efficient. Juntos Farm is a living lab where agriculture and community engagement aims together to a sustainable local food economy.
Juntos Farm is participating in several EIT Food activities including our COVERE² project, EIT Food courses for farmers and most recently PATH2CC project. There are also other projects supporting the shift to sustainable farming methods in the Balearic Islands, such as a regenerative carbon program, Azolla projects.
COVERE² project investigated the electricity sources of the farm and the benefits of transitioning to solar energy. A novel power flow tracing technique (PFT) developed by ELEKS was used for the analysis. Use of PFT strengthen the farm's aims to regenerative, local systems in both food and energy.
PATH2CC project (EIT Food 2025-2028) will explore new business models for small farms to utilize carbon credits. While the focus is on carbon, additional benefits, such as impacts on biodiversity and soil health, are also emphasized. Juntos Farm is among the project pilot farms. The project was kicked off in Ibiza in September.
Juntos Farm exemplifies approaches to regenerative farming, actively working to restore the land and build resilience. The regenerative approach begins with understanding the land's hydrology. Located at the head of a watershed, the farm receives surface runoff from surrounding hills. The water management strategies, include using ditches to reduce surface runoff and enhance water use efficiency. In critical areas with steep slopes, the farm uses leaky weirs and check dams, constructed from on-site rocks, to slow down the water's flow and prevent destructive force.
The farm has compost operation with a concrete composting area. The operation provides organic soil amendments by composting manures from horses, goats and chickens raised on the farm with regulated temperatures and humidity. The organic soil amendments are used by Juntos Farm and surrounding farms dedicating to regenerative agriculture.
The use of alley cropping is another key practice; by planting rows of trees alongside crops, the farm creates a moderated microclimate that conserves water while also improving soil health and biodiversity. The trees stabilize the soil against erosion, cycle nutrients from deep within the ground, and provide a habitat for beneficial organisms.