Felicidad de Herralde is a researcher in viticulture in the Food Production Program of the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), and most importantly the coordinator of the NOVATERRA project. NOVATERRA aims at reducing the negative impact of pesticides for integrated pest, disease and weed management in Mediterranean olive groves and vineyards. In a recent interview, she presents the key objectives of the project which are to:
1. Develop novel combinations of alternatives, non-synthetic products and biological control techniques for plant protection.
2. Optimise the application and dosage of PPPs through the use of smart farming technologies.
3. Mitigate the incidence of pests and diseases thanks to new soil management strategies.
4. Test and validate a combination of integrated solutions in order to improve Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies.
5. Maximise the adoption of successful solutions by engaging with direct and indirect stakeholders.
