Organic farming is not just a trend—it’s a growing movement reshaping the way we produce food, protect biodiversity, and combat climate change. Across Europe, dedicated farmers are proving that sustainable agriculture can deliver both economic resilience and environmental stewardship. As part of the OrganicClimateNET project, we are proud to present some of our _national Farm Ambassadors: farmers who are pioneering organic practices in their regions and inspiring others through their commitment, expertise, and innovation.
Spain: Boris Jost – A Legacy of Organic Citrus
In Canals, Spain, Boris Jost carries forward the rich tradition of Casa del Mas, a fourth-generation organic citrus grove established in 1929. With roots in both Spain and Switzerland, Boris—an agronomist and managing director—is dedicated to maintaining the estate’s direct distribution network in Switzerland while innovating in organic citrus production. At 51 years old, married, and father of two teenagers, Boris brings a blend of family heritage and international perspective to his work. His passion for travel, cultures, and languages fuels his vision of organic farming as a global connector, bridging consumers and sustainable production.
Ireland: Derek Kelly – Innovating with Organic Protein Crops
Derek Kelly, based in Ireland, is an organic tillage and beef farmer whose farm (Moonshine Farm), is a hub of experimentation and diversity. He cultivates rye, wheat, peas, and finishes organic cattle while testing new protein sources like lupins—an exciting innovation aimed at producing local feed for his herd. Beyond his farm, Derek contributes to the wider organic movement as a Farm Development Officer with the Irish Organic Association, supporting other farmers to embrace organic methods. His work exemplifies how traditional livestock systems can integrate crop diversity and resilience for a more sustainable future.
Estonia: Airi Külvet – Leading Organic Growth in the North
Representing Estonia, Airi Külvet brings forward the voice of northern European organic farmers. At Puutsa Farm, history and innovation go hand in hand. The farm, rooted in Airi Külvet’s family since at least 1684, has long been dedicated to grazing traditions. In 1995, fresh out of high school in Tallinn, Airi took over from her grandfather and began shaping its future. She renovated the old farm buildings and expanded the land from 45 to 300 hectares; all managed with strict organic practices. Today, Puutsa Farm thrives with a mix of cereals, oilseeds, and a herd of organic beef cattle, ensuring that centuries of sustainable grazing continue into the modern era. Airi’s work showcases how organic farming is taking root in Estonia, supporting local food systems and creating opportunities in a region where sustainable practices are increasingly vital.
Italy: Mattia Scarbolo – Redefining Organic Wine in Friuli
In Friuli, Italy, Mattia Scarbolo is redefining the potential of organic viticulture. As a passionate organic winemaker and member of the OrganicClimateNET viticulture hub, Mattia focuses on Pinot Grigio, interpreting it across three distinct wines that highlight the unique terroir of the Grave region. Mattia’s philosophy is one of commitment to authenticity: bringing forward an often-underrated expression of the land while sharing it with international audiences. His wines reflect not only organic practices but also a dedication to storytelling through taste and tradition. Check his vineyard here.
France: Étienne Legrand – Organic Dairy and Policy Leadership
In La Meurdraquière, Normandy, Étienne Legrand has been running his organic dairy farm since 2001. With a deep commitment to grass-based systems, Étienne manages crossbred cows under a carefully designed system of single milking and two calving periods—a model of efficiency and animal welfare. But his influence extends beyond the farm. Étienne is president of the organic committee of the Normandy Chambers of Agriculture, elected to the Normandy Chamber of Agriculture, and also sits on the Seine Normandy Water Agency. His dual role as a farmer and policymaker demonstrates how organic farming can shape regional strategies for sustainability and water management.
A Shared European Commitment
From citrus groves in Spain to dairy farms in France, from grain fields in Ireland to vineyards in Italy, and innovative farming in Estonia, our ambassadors embody the spirit of OrganicClimateNET: collaboration, innovation, and resilience in the face of climate change. Through their stories, we see how organic farming is spreading across Europe, offering pathways to healthier food, stronger rural communities, and a more sustainable future.
👉 Discover more about the OrganicClimateNET project and our ambassadors: https://organicclimatenet.eu/about/
