7 Editorial EDUARDO DINIZ Director-General of the GPP This issue of CULTIVAR is dedicated to the olive and olive oil sector. The recent dynamism of this sector, both in Portugal and worldwide, combined with the hosting of major international events dedicated to the sector in Lisbon, makes this in-depth look at a historic crop – one deeply rooted in the national identity and agricultural landscape – particularly timely. Olive groves and olive oil are closely linked to a native plant of undeniable botanical, agronomic, historical and cultural value to producing countries. Few agricultural crops have managed, over the course of millennia, to maintain such a deep connection with the land, the landscape, food (and other uses) and rural communities. The olive tree has accompanied civilisations, withstood adverse conditions, shaped local economies and become a symbol of permanence, resilience and adaptation. This resilience is, in fact, one of the greatest strengths of this crop in a context of profound climate change. The olive tree’s ability to adapt to difficult soil and climate conditions – particularly in terms of water requirements – combined with relatively simple production methods when compared with other permanent crops, has helped to consolidate its expansion and its continued presence in Mediterranean regions. Olive oil’s strong links to gastronomy, the Mediterranean diet and its recognised health benefits have also played a decisive role in the product’s international recognition and in setting it apart from competing industrial products. Photograph by the author – Traditional olive grove, Foz Côa, 2024
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTgxOTE4Nw==