With a vision of building a society that promotes the harmonious coexistence of man and nature, the Mediterranean Institute for Nature and Anthropos (MedINA) implements innovative initiatives aimed at the well-being of local communities as productive and healthy agroecosystems, by protecting, preserving and promoting their natural and cultural heritage. Under this scope, with the support of the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, the programme “Terra Graeca: Small Farm to Market” was implemented, which aims to empower farmers in Lemnos and Kythera in multiple aspects and to foster the sustainable development of the agri-food identity of these islands. The purpose of the Programme is to co-create an integrated model production, standardisation and distribution of products in Lemnos and Kythera, ensuring the economic viability of small producers who adhere to approved standards of traditional agricultural management and have received MedINA’s certification “Terra Vita – Agricultural Tradition and Biodiversity”, and preserving biodiversity through the prudent use of natural resources.

During the Programme, actions were implemented in three interconnected axes: agri-food, sustainable entrepreneurship, and local heritage. Within this framework, the “Terra Vita” certification and certified products in national and international markets were promoted, a short food supply chain was developed, connecting certified olive producers from Kythera with German consumers, and experiential educational workshops were held, focusing on the creation of agroecological businesses and models of agri-food tourism. The first cycle of activities concluded with the “Lemnian Earth Celebrations” Festival in September 2024, an event that showcased the island’s agri-food heritage, as well as the innovative ideas and efforts of local producers to enhance the prosperity of Lemnos’s primary sector.

• 57 producers received training in on-farm artisanal processing, and 17 entrepreneurs were trained in agritourism, through the educational workshops held on the island of Lemnos.
• 40 producers received the “Terra Vita – Agricultural Tradition and Biodiversity” certification for their products, while 300 people participated in the “Lemnian Earth Celebrations” Festival.
• 1 model agritourism route was created on the island of Lemnos.
• MedINA showcased the Programme’s certified products at 3 food and beverage exhibitions in Greece and abroad.

“We would like to thank MedINA for the very interesting educational workshops on on-farm artisanal processing held in Lemnos, regarding small-scale dairy production and visitable farms. The knowledge we gained was truly valuable and will inspire us to help preserve the island’s authenticity and contribute to its development.”

Mina Chondroudi

Food Technologist, Educator

“The project ‘Terra Graeca: Small Farm to Market’, supported by the Latsis Foundation, represents a significant initiative in the field of sustainable agriculture and gastronomic tourism. This project combines the preservation of our valuable agri-food heritage with the visionary pursuit of resilience and sustainability in modern farming practices. The series of experiential workshops, activities, and mentoring services are designed not only to provide essential knowledge but also to spark a transformative journey. This journey extends beyond producers, reaching deep into local communities and cultivating a culture of sustainable growth. Through this approach, the Programme aspires to contribute to the productive revitalisation of rural and remote areas, while promoting a model of sustainable tourism that offers visitors an authentic experience.”

Alexis Katsaros

Executive Director, MedINA