#48 Striking the balance between complexity and efficiency in large scale Syntropic systems with Daniel Fröbel
Listen now
Description
Today we continue investigating Syntropic Farming with Daniel from the Mata do Lobo farm in Brasil. In the past 4 years, they have been working solutions to scale these complex agroforestry systems, soon reaching 50ha planted. Daniel and his partner, Maria Vittoria, have accumulated some tremendous experience as they build one of the most innovative coffee plantations out there. In this episode, you will find out what is the difference between the health and quality of agroforestry coffee and conventional coffee. You will also understand how they are striking a balance between efficiency and complexity - in order to integrate the principles of Syntropic whilst managing these systems at scale. This was a highly practical conversation, inspired by the questions we received from our listeners on social media. We hope you enjoy! TABLE OF CONTENTS 03:47 Daniel’s story 12:35 Objective of the agroforestry plot   16:01 How do you manage inputs?  20:02 What makes Syntropic less input intensive?  22:39 What does the agroforestry produce?  31:09 How much diversity is integrated to the coffee crop?  35:51 How is the coffee crop responding to the Syntropic system?  41:46 How are coffee yields expected to perform in comparison to conventional?     45:41 How did he plant so many trees effectively?   51:01 How many people working on the agroforestry system?  55:23 How do you manage so much biomass?  01:07:26 What harvesting process for coffee?  01:12:16 What potential of mechanisation for Syntropic systems?  01:14:57 What commercialisation strategy?  01:19:44 Is he planning a processing facility?  01:21:48 Could Syntropic systems work in a European context?   01:24:08 Where does he get knowledge from?   • RESOURCES https://www.instagram.com/matadolobo/?hl=en • GET IN TOUCH www.regenerativeagroforestry.org • SUPPORT US www.gumroad.com/regenagroforestry • FOLLOW US on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram • FUNDING FOR EUROPEAN PROJECTS https://explore.ecosia.org/regenerative-agriculture Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
More Episodes
Propagate is a leader in the agroforestry space, specialising in project development and planting agroforestry systems at scale. It's a huge pleasure to chat with Harry, co-founder and Chief Research Officer of the US-based company. Tune in as we geek out on agroforestry economics, economic...
Published 09/04/23
In this episode I discuss with Claire Lemarié her experience working with farmers in the Pays de la Loire region in France, where she is a technical adviser for the chamber of agriculture. She has precious insights into the management of mature hedges, as this region still has a significant...
Published 03/02/23