The 4th Science & Wine World Congress – Energy, Sustainability, and Green Transition in Wine and Olive Oil Production is proud to welcome Francesco Serafini as one of its keynote speakers. His presence is more than symbolic—it represents decades of leadership, scientific expertise, and pioneering work in sustainable agriculture, with a particular focus on the olive sector. As the world grapples with environmental degradation and climate change, Serafini’s voice brings not only scientific credibility but also a hopeful message: agriculture, when wisely managed, can be part of the solution.
A Legacy Rooted in Science and Global Collaboration
Born in San Giovanni Valdarno, Italy, in 1960, Francesco Serafini began his career with a deep-rooted passion for agriculture. Trained as an agronomist and specialized in tropical and subtropical agriculture, seed production, and statistical methods for biological research, his early academic choices laid the foundation for what would become an international journey through innovation, leadership, and ecological commitment.
Throughout his extensive career, Serafini has worked in Latin America, Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, coordinating research and development initiatives that improved the sustainability and resilience of olive oil production. From the Andean highlands of Bolivia, where he supported improved seed systems in the late 1980s, to the international stage as Head of the Research, Development, and Environment Department at the International Olive Council (IOC), his work has always connected local agricultural challenges with global environmental goals.
Sustainability in Practice: The Olive Tree as a Climate Ally
One of the most compelling themes of Serafini’s work—and a central message he will bring to the Congress—is the role of olive trees in climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration.
According to studies presented under his guidance, the production of 1 liter of virgin or extra virgin olive oil generates approximately 1.5 kg of CO₂ equivalent, accounting for farming, transport, and processing. But here’s the game-changer: under optimal conditions, an olive tree can sequester between 10 to 11 kg of CO₂ per liter of oil produced. This astonishing balance not only offsets the emissions involved in olive oil production but turns the olive grove into an active carbon sink—a rare distinction among major crops.
Thanks to their longevity, deep roots, and soil carbon fixation capacity, olive trees also help stabilize ecosystems, prevent soil erosion, and maintain fertility. These features position the olive tree as a model crop in climate-resilient agriculture, especially in the Mediterranean basin, which is one of the regions most vulnerable to the impacts of global warming.
From Research to Action: Landmark Projects That Changed the Sector
Francesco Serafini’s work has never remained confined to theory or academic discourse. His coordination of high-impact international projects has led to concrete changes in how olive cultivation is practiced across continents.
Here are just a few of the initiatives he helped bring to life:
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Olive Genetic Improvement programs in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt, which enhanced resilience and productivity.
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Pilot Units for Olive Oil Quality established in North Africa to promote excellence and market competitiveness.
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Pollen Monitoring Networks in Spain, Italy, and Tunisia to improve production forecasting.
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Olive Germplasm Conservation Projects in 21 IOC member countries, securing genetic biodiversity as a safeguard against climate risks.
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Sustainable Water Resource Management Initiatives in Morocco and Syria, addressing water scarcity in arid regions.
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Certified Plant Production Nurseries across the Mediterranean to promote healthier, more productive trees.
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His landmark presentation at COP22 in Marrakech, titled The Olive Tree as Part of the Solution to Climate Change – CO₂ Sequestration, which brought the environmental value of olive farming to the forefront of global policy discussions.
Through all these efforts, Serafini has not only improved technical systems but also influenced policymaking, promoted cross-border cooperation, and built institutional capacity—all essential to a meaningful green transition.
Publications That Educate and Inspire
Serafini’s impact is also felt through his publications, which serve as both technical resources and policy instruments. He was instrumental in producing:
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The World Catalogue of Olive Varieties, a vital resource for researchers and farmers worldwide.
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Production Techniques in Olive Growing, a practical guide that bridges science and field application.
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The Code of Good Practices for Sustainable Olive Grove Development, which offers a roadmap for climate-smart cultivation.
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The Olive Glossary, facilitating international dialogue and knowledge exchange.
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A Software Tool for Calculating the Carbon Footprint of Olive Oil, helping producers quantify and reduce their emissions.
Each of these resources exemplifies Serafini’s dedication to translating science into action, making complex knowledge accessible to farmers, policymakers, and the broader agricultural community.
The Garden of Peace: From Global Institutions to Grassroots Solutions
Since 2019, Serafini has served as President of The Garden of Peace Association, based in Madrid. The organization takes a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating agroecological principles, biodiversity conservation, and community empowerment.
The Garden of Peace acts as a bridge between policy and practice, working with grassroots initiatives while remaining rooted in scientific evidence and strategic thinking. It embodies Serafini’s belief that peaceful coexistence with the planet begins with the soil, with the seed, and with the commitment of those who cultivate it.
Why Francesco Serafini Matters in the Context of the 4th Science & Wine World Congress
The upcoming Congress in Porto will bring together thought leaders, researchers, and producers committed to reshaping the wine and olive oil industries in the face of ecological and economic challenges. Francesco Serafini’s participation is particularly significant for several reasons:
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He represents the intersection of science, policy, and fieldwork, offering a unique, integrative perspective.
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His expertise in carbon accounting and sustainable resource management directly addresses the Congress’s themes of energy and ecological transition.
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He brings decades of experience leading cross-border cooperation and innovation in olive-growing regions—critical for global scalability.
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His emphasis on inclusivity and capacity-building echoes the Congress’s commitment to empowering local producers while tackling global issues.
In many ways, Serafini embodies the spirit of the event: science-backed, solution-oriented, and deeply rooted in both tradition and transformation.
Looking Forward: Olive Oil as a Model for Sustainable Agri-Systems
In the search for more sustainable models of agriculture, the olive sector provides a compelling blueprint. Thanks to the advocacy and technical leadership of experts like Francesco Serafini, we now understand olive cultivation as not only economically viable but environmentally restorative.
By focusing on carbon sequestration, biodiversity, soil health, and water conservation, olive groves—especially those cultivated with sustainable practices—emerge as living laboratories for low-carbon agriculture. And with tools such as the carbon footprint calculator or good practices code, producers are now better equipped than ever to assess, adapt, and innovate.
Meet Francesco Serafini in Porto
Participants of the 4th Science & Wine World Congress, taking place from May 28 to 30, 2025, will have the opportunity to learn directly from Francesco Serafini during his keynote presentation. His talk is expected to delve deeper into the carbon dynamics of olive farming, the international efforts to improve sustainability, and the role of Mediterranean agriculture in the global green transition.
Whether you’re a researcher, policymaker, producer, or student, this is an opportunity to engage with one of the most respected voices in sustainable olive cultivation today.
Final Words
Francesco Serafini’s journey reminds us that agriculture is not just about feeding the world—it’s about healing it. His work in olive farming, from the microscopic level of seed genetics to the macroscopic level of climate policy, demonstrates how interconnected our choices are. As the climate crisis accelerates, the message he brings is clear: if we want a sustainable future, we must look to the roots—literally.
And the olive tree, ancient yet innovative, might just lead the way.
All about the congress at: https://www.science-and-wine-conferences.com/