In a bid to protect the ancient olive trees of Puglia, a new preservation zone has been launched in Ostuni to combat the growing threat of the Xylella fastidiosa bacteria, which has devastated the region’s olive orchards. This groundbreaking initiative, announced on UNESCO World Olive Tree Day (26th November), marks a significant step in the fight to save Puglia’s monumental olive trees, some of which are believed to be over 2,500 years old.
The newly established 25-hectare preservation zone, A.M.O. Alberi Monumentali di Ostuni, is the first of its kind in the world and forms part of a larger effort to create a 100-hectare protected area. The zone is the result of collaboration between A.M.O. Puglia Alberi Monumentali di Ostuni, a local non-profit, and Save the Olives ONLUS. Together, the two organisations aim to protect these iconic trees, which represent a vital part of the region’s cultural, environmental, and economic heritage.
The olive trees of Puglia, known for their ancient age and resilience, have been severely impacted by Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterial disease that has already killed an estimated 21 million trees across the region. The newly launched preservation zone hopes to stop the spread of the disease by focusing on advanced grafting techniques, which have shown promise as the only effective way to save the remaining trees.
The project has received backing from local farmers, agronomists, tourism experts, and volunteers, who are working together to create a model of sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and eco-tourism. The goal is to eventually expand the protected area and secure UNESCO recognition under the Green Citizens programme in 2025.
Paul Bernie, President of A.M.O. Puglia, hailed the initiative as an example of community-driven conservation. “The monumental olive trees in Puglia are a priceless cultural, economic, and environmental legacy,” he said. “This preservation zone is not just about protecting trees but safeguarding an entire way of life for future generations.”
As part of the efforts to save the olive trees, both A.M.O. Puglia and Save the Olives ONLUS are urging further support. They are calling for donations to fund a crowdfunding campaign that aims to raise €300,000 for urgent grafting and land management. The campaign will also lobby EU policymakers to recognise grafting as a vital part of plant protection policies.
Patrizio Ziggiotti, General Secretary of Save the Olives ONLUS, stressed the importance of timely action. “This project shows the power of early intervention,” he said. “Grafting is the only solution to preserve these monumental trees, and with the support of the community, we can reverse the damage caused by Xylella.”
The preservation zone and its ambitious plans offer hope for Puglia’s ancient olive trees, which remain at risk despite the ongoing efforts to save them. With continued support, the project aims to be a model for other regions facing similar environmental challenges. Donate at www.amopuglia.com or savetheolives.com
