Branches of Change : Scaling biomass valorization in order to strengthen the transition towards regenerative agriculture in the olive-agrifood system of Lakonia, Greece.

Sammanfattning

Regenerative agriculture is increasingly recognized as necessary in response to ecological degradation and climate change, yet conventional practices continue to dominate many agricultural systems. In the olive agrifood system of Lakonia, Greece, open-field burning of olive pruning residues remains the dominant residue management practice, while regenerative alternatives such as soil-coverage with shredded pruning residues are only adopted by a small number of producers. Taking a systems perspective, this study explored barriers and enablers for scaling biomass valorization and the system elements shaping the transition toward regenerative agriculture in Lakonia. Based on semi-structured interviews with 12 stakeholders and combined thematic analysis and systems mapping, the study found that scaling biomass valorization is shaped by interconnected economic pressures, fragmented land structures, limited infrastructure, perceived risks, and restricted access to trusted knowledge. At the same time, agronomic and economic benefits, social learning, role-model practitioners, and collaboration emerged as enablers. The findings suggest that scaling biomass valorization is not simply a matter of increasing adoption, but of transforming the social, economic, and institutional conditions shaping agricultural practices. Biomass valorization therefore appears as a tangible entry point for broader regenerative transitions in Lakonia. Further research should focus on context-specific measures enhancing this practice.