Covering to Produce: The Promises and Limitations of Physical Protections

The Vine & Wine Business Chair and the Innov’Arbo Chair are organizing a symposium on November 5 atthe Institut Agro Montpellier, focusing on innovations in viticulture and arboriculture. Nets, tarps, solar panels: What are their potential benefits and limitations?

In the face of increasingly severe weather events and the need to reduce the use of pesticides, physical protection measures are emerging as a key adaptation strategy for crops. Hail, frost, extreme heat, drought, insect pests, and certain diseases: these measures are attracting growing interest in the viticulture and arboriculture sectors. But how effective are they in practice, and at what cost? What effects do they have on crops, farming practices, and work organization?

Drawing on real-world experience and research findings, the conference will offer a multifaceted perspective on the agronomic, technical, environmental, and societal challenges associated with the deployment of these protective measures: plastic pollution, impacts on landscapes and biodiversity, and compatibility with protected designations of origin. A day dedicated to examining the promises of physical protective measures, their limitations, and the conditions for their large-scale deployment.

Registration is free but required. Space is limited.