Overview

In just a few short years, a bacterium called xylella fastidiosa has decimated over 21 million olive trees in southern Italy’s Puglia region, known as the world’s major producer of extra virgin olive oil. This crisis has led to widespread unemployment among local farmers. In response, OlivaMi, a grassroots organization, was founded in January 2022 to revive Puglia's olive groves. 

How We Support

B&R has proudly supported OlivaMi since 2023 through the Slow Fund, pledging 5,000 euros per year to establish a B&R forest, adding 200 olive trees per year to the forest. This investment contributes to Salento's recovery, mitigates CO2 emissions, restores local employment, and sustains olive oil production. 

Restoring Landscape & Reviving Cultural Heritage

OlivaMi has adopted 30,000 olive trees and planted 30,000 more, aiding 230 at-risk farmers.

Supporting Regenerative Agriculture & Addressing Climate Change

OlivaMi have regenerated 150 hectares to date. Each hectare of olive trees removes 9.5 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere every year. That is about 730 kg of CO2 per year for each olive tree.

Supporting Economic Recovery & Preventing Land Abandonment

Over the next five years, OlivaMi aims to provide jobs to all affected farmers and create employment opportunities for Salento's youth.