CAROBSHIELD OBJECTIVES
To highlight the value of the carob tree as a preventive shield and a means of sustainable management, against the incidence of natural disasters related to climate change and mega-fires, drought, desertification, and floods, serving as a valuable solution for the ecosystem.
To support the revival and expansion of carob cultivation around rural residential areas and, in combination with animal grazing, to contribute to reducing combustible material and to the development of livestock farming. In addition, in areas declared for reforestation, it aims to function as a shield against the incidence of major fires in the future.
To contribute to the holistic utilization of the carob tree and its products as a means for the further spread of its cultivation.
CAROBSHIELD includes 5 Work Packages (WPs)
01.
Management–Coordination
This concerns the overall management of the project, ensuring smooth cooperation among partners and monitoring the completion of deliverables.
Lead partner: ELGO-DIMITRA
02.
Communication & Publicity
This refers to the project’s communication and publicity activities and aims to inform target groups about the project’s objectives and results.
Lead partner: Energeiaki S.A.
03.
Mapping the role of the carob tree in the eligible action areas
This Work package includes recording current status of carob cultivation and utilization of its products and documenting traditional techniques / methods that were used.
Lead partner: Municipality of Amari
04.
Investigation of the potential of the carob tree as a factor in climate change adaptation for risk prevention and management, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and resilience of the agro-ecosystem
This concerns studies related to the utilization of:(i) local varieties and genotypes of the carob tree,(ii) the carob tree in relation to natural disasters, and(iii) carob pods and leaves in animal nutrition—with emphasis on the use of bioactive components, the benefits for animal health/welfare.
Lead partner: KES Research Centre
05.
Pilot/demonstrative applications and training of involved stakeholders in innovative practices
This includes pilot actions a) employing the carob tree in fire protection, b) developing grazing systems and promoting co-existence of small ruminant farming with carob trees, c) demonstrations in goat and sheep farms with carob-enriched feed, and d) performing training seminars and producing training material.
Lead partner: Limassol District Development Agency Ltd