About the Project
ALCAROB is an applied research project aimed at strengthening and making available technical and scientific knowledge about the carob tree, assessing its potential as a sustainable crop for the Alentejo region. By combining the selection of cold/frost-tolerant genotypes, clonal propagation and biotechnological valorisation, the project seeks to identify solutions that will enable the expansion of this crop into more inland and colder areas, contributing to agricultural diversification and territorial sustainability.
The project contributes to a more sustainable, diversified and resilient agriculture, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Plant Biotechnology
- Agricultural Management and Sustainability
- Territorial Valorisation and Impact Creation
Mission
To promote the scientific and technical knowledge needed to assess and expand carob cultivation in the Alentejo region, based on a framework of sustainability, innovation and climate adaptation.
Objectives
To select cold/frost-tolerant genotypes, develop clonal propagation strategies, and explore natural compounds with potential applications in biopesticides.
Impact
To contribute to agricultural diversification, territorial valorisation, more efficient use of resources, and the creation of new economic opportunities in the region.
Knowledge Valorisation and Application
Addressing Land Degradation and Climate Change
- The Alentejo region faces water scarcity, soil degradation and a loss of productive capacity.
- The project seeks to support the introduction of crops that are better adapted to these climatic conditions.
Introducing More Water-Efficient Crops
- The project contributes to more efficient water management in agriculture.
- The carob tree is highly adapted to rainfed conditions and poor soils.
Selection of Cold-Tolerant Genotypes
- The species is sensitive to cold and frost, which is why the project focuses on selecting varieties that are better adapted to these conditions.
- This approach may enable carob cultivation to expand into new areas of the Alentejo region.
A Viable Alternative for Poor and Degraded Soils
- The carob tree adapts to different soil types, including low-fertility soils.
- It represents a sustainable option for revitalising the region's productive fabric.
Reducing Pesticide Use and Supporting the Ecological Transition
- The project explores natural compounds with potential applications in biopesticides.
- This line of research supports safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.
Creating New Value Chains and Economic Opportunities
- The valorisation of fruits, leaves and metabolites may open up new industrial applications.
- The project contributes to diversifying and strengthening the regional economic fabric.
From Scientific Knowledge to Territorial Transformation
ALCAROB seeks to develop concrete responses to the agricultural challenges facing the Alentejo region, connecting research, experimentation and the applied valorisation of knowledge.