Social farming is a practice that is only partially new—a retro-innovation that combines the traditions and methods of traditional rural communities with the needs of contemporary society. Utilizing natural resources, rural spaces, and the connection with biological cycles, as well as the equal participation in managing tangible production processes, are key elements of social farming activities. Over the years, we have carried out small-scale experiments with some of the participants, and it has been observed how gardening and horticulture activities can provide significant opportunities for personal growth.
Respecting nature's rhythms and taking daily care of the growth of garden produce or small animals such as rabbits, chickens, or donkeys helps develop practical skills, such as using specific tools and understanding the seasonality of products—how to sow, plant, and cultivate. It also fosters abstract abilities like observation skills. Caring for a seedling and nurturing it into a mature plant capable of producing abundant fruit becomes a metaphor for understanding what it means for a child to grow and become independent. It offers a way to reflect on parental care received, to understand the role of educators, and the purpose of Albergo Etico. When sufficiently grown and ready, participants can “detach” from this nurturing environment to embrace new experiences.
Participants can engage in small gardening activities both at Albergo Etico, which features flower beds, potted plants, and aromatic herbs, and in specific dedicated outdoor spaces. One of the projects envisioned is the creation of a Bio-Ethical Park, an agricultural area where students from Albergo Etico can manage a small garden and care for some farmyard animals. To promote collaboration with the community, the park could be managed in partnership with volunteer associations, private individuals, seniors, and schools. Some potential ideas include:
The solutions can vary, including, when local agricultural businesses are willing, the organization of internships at individual production facilities.
