ReSEED
Rescuing seed’s heritage: engaging in a new framework of agriculture and innovation since the 18th century
Duration
01/01/2018 - 31/10/2025
Team
Team Coord.: Dulce Freire
Funding: European Research Council
GA: 760090
Team
ReSEED leads extensive research of the available information on the seeds cultivated across the Iberian Peninsula between 1750 and 1950 to characterize the changes in agriculture and agrobiodiversity. The geographical circulation, adaptation and impact of the seeds are examined.
ReSEED also aims to identify the “forgotten seeds”, that is, those that are no longer cultivated, assessing whether they could be reintroduced to contribute to more sustainable agriculture in the present and future.
Maps showing the changing “historical geography” of the seeds will be produced to facilitate the interpretation of the information gathered in this first phase. Databases regarding plant varieties will be built using the standard procedures of biology and botany.
After the extensive research, three case studies will be designed and carried out. An intensive analysis will provide detailed information related to local agrarian challenges promoted by the new seeds. The investigation focus on the changes in the landscape, the economic and social networks, and the agricultural practices associated with the successful cultivation. The sustainability and the potential for replication in other regions are considered.