Organised by CIMBAL as the host partner, the meeting brought together partners from Spain, France and Portugal to review the project’s progress and share a common conclusion: the transition towards more sustainable models requires not only technical solutions, but also institutional support, training and cooperation among stakeholders.
The 3rd Soil&WineResidues consortium meeting, held in Beja (Portugal) from 1 to 3 June, was organised by CIMBAL as the host partner. The meeting provided an opportunity to share the project’s technical progress and draw an important conclusion from the work carried out over the last six months: the wine sector recognises the need to evolve towards more sustainable models.
However, it also became clear that this transition does not depend solely on technical solutions. It also requires training, institutional support, reduced administrative burdens, and stronger technical, economic and legal backing.
During the meeting, Juan José Villaverde, the project’s scientific coordinator, highlighted that the sustainability of the wine sector requires genuine cooperation among stakeholders, institutional coordination and integrated solutions combining sustainable soil management, reduced input use, water efficiency and waste valorisation.
The working sessions focused on eco-efficiency, innovation, results sharing, communication and planning. These activities were complemented by technical visits to the Adega Cooperativa de Vidigueira, Cuba e Alvito, Herdade dos Grous and Herdade da Figueirinha. These visits helped connect the project’s progress with the real needs of the territory. CIMBAL’s involvement was key to strengthening the link between the consortium’s work and the Baixo Alentejo region.
In addition, Soil&WineResidues participated in the GWTO Global Summit 2026, held in Beja and focused on responsible wine tourism, through the participation of Juan José Villaverde, who delivered the presentation entitled *“Soil&WineResidues: Transformação sustentável do setor vitivinícola”*. During his intervention, he presented the project from the perspective of sustainability and circular economy within the wine sector, highlighting the role of wine tourism as a valuable tool to bring these sustainable practices closer to local communities, strengthen connections with consumers and visitors, and encourage their adoption across the sector.
With this meeting, Soil&WineResidues further strengthens its role as a platform for transnational cooperation, promoting a more sustainable, resilient wine sector aligned with the principles of the circular economy.