Agroecology takes the stage in Agrigento: how Sicily is leading the green revolution of the Mediterranean

From June 9 to 12, 2025, scientists, farmers, artists, and activists meet in the Valley of the Temples to shape a sustainable future through science, culture, and biodiversity

Sicily at the heart of the agroecological revolution

Agrigento, Italian Capital of Culture 2025, will host the 1st Mediterranean Agroecology Congress, an international event blending science, practice, and movement to tackle today’s environmental and social challenges. Over 250 contributions from around the world – from the Mediterranean to the USA, Latin America, and Asia – demonstrate the urgency and global relevance of this issue.

Organized by the Sicilian Agroecology Coordination, in collaboration with AIDA and AIAF, the Congress aims to strengthen ties between scientific research, traditional farming knowledge, and sustainable innovation.

Agroecology Open Space: where science meets storytelling

At the heart of the event lies the Agroecology Open Space, an exhibition pavilion where research, art, and storytelling come together. Visitors will explore themes like biodiversity, agroforestry, and soil regeneration, brought to life through interactive art installations.

Curated by Rossana Danile, the artistic direction relies on her storytelling art concept, a format where emotion and narrative guide the experience, featuring works by artists such as Antonella Barone, Alessandro Calizza, and Solveig Cogliani. It’s a sensorial journey into the ancient bond between humans and nature.

Four days of science, land, and ancient seeds

The program includes four full days:

• June 9, 10, and 12: thematic sessions, roundtables, and labs
• June 11: field visits to five pilot agroecological farms

During the Congress, participants will draft three strategic documents – scientific, technical, and political – to guide future agroecological research and public policy.

One highlight will be the exchange of ancient seeds among Mediterranean farmers, aimed at protecting and regenerating agricultural biodiversity.

The agroecological caravan and the sustainable store of tomorrow

Thanks to the Agroecological Caravan organized by AIDA, farmers from across Italy will share experiences and best practices. There will also be an agroecological store offering natural products and artisanal creations like organic fabrics and clothing designed for body wellness and environmental respect.

A concert for nature and universal peace

The event will also feature a major international symphonic-lyric concert at the Teatro Pirandello, with the Concordiae Musici Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Johannes Skudlik, and featuring Miriam Bissanti, Alfonso Zambuto, and pianist Luigi Fiore. Music, culture, and sustainability will come together in a gala evening of celebration and hope.

A Mediterranean network for a new ecology

Scientific director Guido Bissanti emphasizes: “This is more than a scientific event. It’s a connection between science, practice, and movement. We’ll learn from nature’s codes, which already show us how future societies will evolve. The true meaning of integral ecology is understanding how to preserve and respect nature.”

Sicily, the first European region with a specific law on agroecology, now leads the Mediterranean transition, bridging ancient traditions with cutting-edge science.

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FAQ

What is agroecology?
It’s an approach to agriculture that integrates ecological principles, scientific knowledge, and traditional practices for sustainable farming systems.

When does the Congress take place?
From June 9 to 12, 2025, in Agrigento at the Palacongressi.

Who is organizing the event?
The Sicilian Agroecology Coordination, in collaboration with AIDA and AIAF.

What are the main topics?
Science, land regeneration, biodiversity, storytelling, art, and sustainable policies.

What is the Agroecology Open Space?
An exhibition space combining research, art, farmer talks, and ancient seed exchanges.

Can I join the field visits?
Yes, on June 11 participants can visit five pilot farms.

What are the final documents?
Three strategic texts (scientific, technical, political) to guide Mediterranean agroecology.

Is music part of the program?
Yes, with a gala symphonic-lyric concert that links culture and sustainability.

Will there be local producers and artisans?
Yes, the store will showcase organic products, handmade goods, and ethical fashion.

Is there a connection to European initiatives?
Yes, the Congress dialogues with the Agroecology Europe Forum in Malmö (October 2–4, 2025).