The agricultural cooperative "Lentamente" comprises a collective hailing from the rural province of Benevento, situated in southern Italy. This region witnesses significant emigration, with an average of over 5000 individuals annually relocating within this province alone. Such migration is propelled by various factors prevalent in rural areas, including transportation limitations, inadequate services, a dearth of quality employment opportunities, and a lack of diverse experiences. Many of the cooperative’s members have firsthand migration backgrounds and, after diverse experiences and years away, opted to return to their origins.

Upon coming back, the members have adopted a wider view of their home territories, embracing new perspectives: a landscape less affected by industrial cultural uniformity and, importantly, rich in intangible cultural heritage and ancient wisdom deserving of safeguarding.

The group blends agriculture with social elements, valuing both individuals and the landscape, addressing the needs of local residents by utilizing hands-on work and food as tools for inclusion and advancement. They concentrate on exploring alternative agricultural methodologies devoid of chemical inputs (fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, etc.), invasive farming techniques, and excessive land exploitation. Their objective is to engage disadvantaged individuals, raise awareness among people with disabilities, inform families and society, and foster integration without erasing differences or assimilating identities. This not only enables participants to carve out a distinct trajectory for their future but also contributes tangible actions that enhance the value of the territory.

The Lentamente group has successfully conducted numerous initiatives and aspires to evolve into a genuine training and guidance centre in the agricultural realm, aiding victims of labour exploitation. This endeavour entails specialized training programs for local crops, such as olive tree or grapevine pruning.

In 2022, Lentamente was honoured with the ILC Award—a recognition bestowed by the International Land Coalition, the most extensive and inclusive alliance addressing land rights, serving as a global coalition of civil society, farmer organizations, and United Nations agencies.

Their product range encompasses wheat, flour, fresh produce, legumes, honey, hazelnut cream, pasta, and tomato sauce. Additionally, they operate processing and honey packaging facilities and presently manage several hectares of land where they also cultivate olive trees and grapevines to produce olive oil and wine. 

https://agricoltorebio.it/azienda/societa-cooperativa-agricola-lentamente/
https://www.facebook.com/p/Lentamente-Societ%C3%A0-Cooperativa-Agricola-100063899976890/
https://www.ilgiornaledelcibo.it/lentamente-cooperativa-sociale/
https://consorziosaledellaterra.it/la-cooperativa-lentamente-vincitrice-dellinternational-land-coalition-award/
https://lentamente.wixsite.com/lentamentecoop/page2
https://www.facebook.com/people/Lentamente-Societ%C3%A0-Cooperativa-Agricola/100063899976890/?locale=hy_AM&paipv=0&eav=AfZwvvUEalNOZgJa_boP5V6mx9Cep0qXvF8awUGrXjgD6igfBcJeRbnWpK2rIBzXWMw&_rdr
https://www.lentamenteshop.it/it/
https://agricoltorebio.it/azienda/societa-cooperativa-agricola-lentamente/
 

Direct SDGs:

• SDG 1: No Poverty: The cooperative focuses on economic sustainability and aims to create remunerative agricultural practices, contributing to poverty reduction.
• SDG 2: Zero Hunger: Lentamente produces a variety of food items, including wheat, flour, vegetables, legumes, and honey, contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture.
• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: The cooperative engages in social agriculture, providing activities that promote the well-being of individuals, especially those with disabilities or disadvantages.
• SDG 4: Quality Education: Lentamente is involved in training and vocational programs for individuals with disabilities and other disadvantaged backgrounds, contributing to inclusive and quality education.
   

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth: The cooperative's focus on creating remunerative agricultural practices and its efforts toward social and work integration align with the goal of promoting decent work and economic growth.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequality: Lentamente's projects aim to reduce social inequalities by providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities, former addicts, and those with a history of incarceration.
• SDG 15: Life on Land: Lentamente's efforts include the recovery and regeneration of abandoned land, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and sustainable land use.

Indirect SDGs:

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy: Although not directly discussed, sustainable agricultural practices often involve energy considerations. The cooperative's focus on environmental sustainability may indirectly contribute to clean energy initiatives.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: The establishment of a social farm in an urban area (Caffè dell’Orto) aligns with the idea of creating sustainable and inclusive communities.
• SDG 13: Climate Action: Sustainable agricultural practices mentioned in the article contribute to climate action by reducing the environmental impact of farming activities.
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: The cooperative's involvement in combating labor exploitation (mentioned indirectly) aligns with the broader goal of promoting justice and strong institutions
   

Justification:

Responsible Consumption and Production about the cooperative emphasizes environmentally sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to responsible consumption and production.

1. How does the "Lentamente" (Slowly) cooperative tackle the unique agricultural obstacles encountered in emigration-prone regions like Sannio?
2. How does the cooperative intertwine agriculture with social engagement, and how does this foster the advancement of the local community?
3. What are Lentamente's key objectives concerning the social and employment integration of marginalized individuals, including those with disabilities, substance abuse issues, or prior convictions?
4. In what ways does the cooperative advocate for environmental sustainability through its agricultural methods, and what benefits does this yield for soil health, the ecosystem, and biodiversity?

Agostino Cefalo, Gramigna ODV