The Provincial Council of Lleida, through its Deputy for Economic Promotion, Jordi Verdú, participated in the XXXI Fruit Day organized by IRTA in Mollerussa. The event, which brought together nearly 1,500 fruit sector professionals, served to discuss current and future challenges, such as climate change adaptation, water management, plant health, and the digitalization of agricultural holdings.
One of the main novelties presented was ADORE, a new generation of apple varieties resulting from over twenty years of research by IRTA and its international partners. These varieties are designed to maintain quality and productivity in warmer climatic conditions, addressing a key challenge for Mediterranean fruit farming.
Jordi Verdú emphasized the strategic role of agri-food in the economy of the Lleida region, highlighting the importance of research and knowledge transfer for competitiveness. "The future of our territory depends on maintaining a strong, competitive, and innovative agri-food sector," stated Verdú, who underscored the Council's commitment to bringing scientific advancements to farmers.
The collaboration between the Provincial Council of Lleida and IRTA, through an agreement, was highlighted to promote innovation in the agri-food sector of Lleida and the Pyrenees. Verdú concluded by remarking that innovation is crucial for generating opportunities, fostering generational renewal, and retaining population in the region.
The event also addressed topics such as water availability, frost prevention, fire blight management, and new technologies like autonomous agricultural vehicles and the application of UV-C radiation on apple trees, aiming for more efficient and sustainable production.
Attendees had the opportunity to learn about research project results through practical demonstrations, exhibitions of peach and nectarine varieties, and tastings of new apple varieties, facilitating the transfer of scientific advancements to sector professionals.
