Valle del Conde was created five years ago, when its owners realised that things could be done differently, in a way that not only respects the ecosystem, but also protects it and helps it to recover and improve.

Since 2019, their primary focus has been on regenerative agriculture, with the main focus on the soil, their most precious treasure, which they work to protect, care for and enrich. In this system, sheep play the main role, as their grazing on these fields contributes in every way, to the enrichment of the soil's properties, turning them into beautiful meadows full of life that are integrated as part of an overall ecosystem that sees its biodiversity greatly increased.

In just five years, they have turned monoculture fields into multi-species grasslands (with 24-26 plant species/m²), now hosting a greater variety of animal species, from birds such as owls or vultures to a multitude of insects. The result of their efforts is not only a flourishing ecosystem but also a product of exceptional quality – olive oil with an extraordinary nutritional profile.

Finca Valle del Conde stands as a truly one-of-a-kind project, serving as a global benchmark for excellence. It is the result of careful, responsible work—an inspiring model of what can be achieved in agriculture.

On behalf of my entire team, I want to thank Compassion for this significant award. We firmly believe that Regenerative Agro-Farming offers a crucial solution to alleviate the climate crisis we are suffering, that especially affects and will continue to affect the agricultural sector. We understand it is necessary to adopt a holistic approach that considers all aspects: water cycles, soil fertility, biodiversity, and the integration of various species within the ecosystem. We strive to implement these principles through holistic and ancestral practices.

Currently, no other olive farm in the world is implementing regenerative practices like ours, and as a result, our olive oil has been recognised among the top 10 globally for its healthy composition and the presence of Oleocanthal or natural Ibuprofen. We are incredibly proud to be acknowledged for our work, establishing Finca Regenerativa Valle del Conde as a worldwide reference.

We also want to thank Compassion for envisaging the future of food and recognising the urgent need to reform our current systems. Their commitment to supporting companies like ours on this transformative journey is invaluable.

Francisco Ruiz Rico, Technical Director of Finca Regenerativa Valle del Conde

Compassion celebrates its 2024 award winners