Introduction: Biodiversity at Stake - Ulysses' Last Journey (03:54)

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The Mediterranean Basin’s 530 million residents must cooperate to save area biodiversity; regional landscapes were created by natural and human activities. Agricultural economies and climate change threaten ecosystems; during the last 40 years, 30% of the Earth’s species has gone extinct.

Spain: Plasticulture (08:35)

In the Almeria region, intensive agriculture takes place in greenhouses, encroaching on habitats and impacting biodiversity. Farmers are adopting organic and biological methods, but do not attempt to save local vegetation. Cabo de Gata Natural Park is protected, but threatened by illegal farming and lack of political will.

Sicilian Islands: Declining Diversity (08:44)

Residents of Pantelleria Island have been transforming the landscape for 5,000 years; stone terraces protect gardens from winds, allowing various plants to grow. As traditional agriculture is abandoned, trees and shrubs take over the ecosystem and decrease the number of species.

Sicilian Islands: Reviving Traditional Cultivation (04:35)

Pantelleria is a volcanic island with fertile soil; crops grow well, but low to ground and are difficult to harvest. The European PGI Label guarantees the origin of its capers from farm to market; agricultural companies plant ancient grape varietals. Regional wines and foods are expensive, but globally renown.

Expert Advice: Reconciliation (03:05)

Mediterranean landscapes and ecosystems are diverse; integrating local components into agriculture is important to maintaining biodiversity. Creating protected areas helps preserve species, but putting them at forefront by bringing man and nature together must be better prioritized.

France: Agropastoralism (07:55)

Shepherds have walked flocks through Cevennes National Park Mountains for centuries; livestock maintains open environment required by regional wildlife. As pastoral activities are abandoned, forest expands, encroaching on ecosystem harboring 80% of area biodiversity.

Iberian Peninsula (10:14)

In Monfrague Park, development supported agriculture has been shaping the landscape for 5,000 years and formed the largest agroforestry system in Europe. Farmers assert their method requires balance and respect for ecosystems. Man-made watering holes are used by cattle and wildlife while supporting greater biodiversity.

Expert Advice: Adopting Agroecology (03:07)

Mediterranean basin countries are challenged by producing food while preserving land integrity and area species. Agriculture must become compatible with natural ecosystems despite possible profit losses. Preserving biodiversity is also saving Earth’s capacity to be resilient while facing climate change.

Credits: Biodiversity at Stake (00:47)

Credits: Biodiversity at Stake