WP1
Participatory testing of climate-smart crops
Research Line 1 · Soil Health and Sustainable Farming Practices
Lead researcher:
Marta Vasconcelos
Research units: CBQF
Overview
WP1 explores new approaches to sustainable agriculture through the evaluation of crops that are more resilient to climate change and the development of innovative tools for monitoring soil health.
The work focuses on varieties of lupin, tomato, and barley selected for their potential to adapt to adverse environmental conditions, reduced resource requirements, and high nutritional value. Through participatory trials conducted in different agroclimatic contexts in Portugal, the project aims to understand the performance of these crops under real production conditions.
Sustainable agriculture and local participation
One of the key aspects of WP1 is the direct involvement of farmers in field trials and data collection. This participatory approach helps bridge scientific research and local agricultural practices, promoting the validation of solutions adapted to different territories and environmental contexts.
The trials include the analysis of agronomic and physiological indicators related to productivity, climate stress resistance, and nutrient use efficiency.
Soil health and monitoring
WP1 also investigates the impact of these crops on soil health, analysing factors such as microbial diversity, nutrient dynamics, and carbon sequestration potential.
In parallel, a portable prototype will be developed for rapid soil nutrient analysis, designed to support precision agriculture practices and the sustainable management of agricultural resources.
