Dr. Ina Knobloch, Antonio Lo Franco

Fattoria La Vialla is an Italian family business that is particularly characterized by its extensive sustainable practices in the areas of agriculture and production.

Mr. Antonio Lo Franco and his wife Sabina Pancini came directly from wonderful Italy and proudly accepted the coveted Golden Planet Award for their ecologically sustainable environmental policy on the farm.

Lo Franco says: “Our company proves that it is worthwhile in every respect not to equate profitability with profit, but to initiate projects based on personal conviction.”

Fattoria La Vialla is a family-run, biodynamically certified farm in Italy, which has been run by the Lo Franco family since 1978. The company cultivates 1,600 hectares of land, which is operated entirely according to organic and Demeter guidelines. The product range includes wine, olive oil, cheese, antipasti, sauces, pasta and confectionery – all made from their own raw materials and with artisanal care.

La Vialla’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in numerous aspects: Renewable energies such as photovoltaics are used, the fields are irrigated with rainwater and constructed wetlands are used. The company is committed to a circular economy, recycles materials and does not use plastic packaging. New trees and hedges are planted every year and old grape varieties are preserved to promote biodiversity. La Vialla also constructs climate-neutral buildings and is constantly working on new, environmentally friendly projects.

The interview about this success story:

Fattoria La Vialla – A model for sustainable management in harmony with nature

Our relationship with nature has never been more important than it is today – we are part of it, not outsiders. Scientists warn urgently of the consequences of biodiversity loss for human well-being. You could compare it to a financial portfolio: In both cases, diversity is fundamental to being immune to shocks and promoting resilience. As our economy is embedded in nature, it is becoming increasingly fragile and vulnerable in the face of climate change, ecosystem collapse and food insecurity.

It is crucial to measure the value of nature and push financial markets to account for these externalities in systems, services and products to show society the true cost. The focus on financial and manufactured capital and the neglect of natural capital has led us to exceed the Earth’s carrying capacity. According to the Dasgupta report, 1.6 Earths would be needed to maintain the world’s current living standards… There is another way and a paradigm shift is needed.

For over 45 years, Fattoria La Vialla has impressively demonstrated that sustainable management and economic success can go hand in hand. The Lo Franco family, who run the company, rely on a regenerative circular economy in harmony with nature – without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Their aim is to strengthen soil fertility, promote biodiversity and produce high-quality, nutrient-rich food and cosmetics.

The family-run farm currently cultivates over 1,000 hectares using biodynamic methods, of which almost 800 hectares are already certified according to the strict Demeter guidelines. These areas include vineyards, olive groves and vegetable fields, while the surrounding forests provide a habitat for numerous animal species – including 145 bird species, some of which are rare. Decades ago, La Vialla restored 1,270 hectares of woodland and is still committed to preserving biodiversity today.

La Vialla takes a holistic approach: production is based on a closed-loop system in which all processes – from sowing to packaging – take place directly on the farm. The products are sold exclusively to end consumers – from the farm directly to the plate.

Resources are conserved by using photovoltaic systems to generate energy and innovative water treatment systems. The elimination of plastic and the recycling of all materials set new standards in sustainability. La Vialla’s role in the area of climate positivity is particularly noteworthy: the farm binds more CO₂ than it emits and thus actively contributes to reducing climate change.

The farm’s success is not only reflected in its award-winning products, but also in the inspiration it provides to other farmers. Over 91 farmers in the region have been supported by La Vialla to switch to organic farming. This collaboration strengthens the region and creates a network of sustainable farms that have internalized the principles of regenerative agriculture.

Fattoria La Vialla proves that large-scale farming is possible without sacrificing ecological integrity. With its clear focus on environmental and climate protection and the promotion of biodiversity, the farm is a role model for companies worldwide.

This commitment was honored with the German Sustainability Award in 2024.

We should all free ourselves from the “don’t look up” mentality.

Everyone can make a contribution to climate protection and biodiversity. We need a regenerative economy.

Our future depends on how well we treat the environment today.

The principles of regenerative agriculture can serve as a model for advancing the transition from an extractive to a regenerative economy, culture and society.

For us, this means looking beyond short-term gains and focusing on long-term health and resilience.

This can be implemented in all sectors…