EcoLearn CIC and Lincolnshire Outdoor Learning are leading the charge in sustainable food production with our “Sow Study Sustain” program. The National Lottery Community Fund innovative initiative is now focusing on creating a circular economy fruit forest in addition to our community micro farm tunnels and gardens. This will continue to grow healthy food and foster a real net-zero community appreciation of the Lincolnshire Wolds natural environment. Health and well being is alive and well in the Wolds.
Circular Economy and the 9R’s
EcoLearn and LOLs commitment to a circular economy is evident in our adherence to the 9R’s: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Refurbish, Remanufacture, Repurpose, Recycle, and Recover. By applying these principles, we minimise waste and maximise resource utilisation in both our fruit forest and vegetable areas for the valuable open pollenated seeds and rich compost that will close the loop of Sow Study Sustain
Biodiversity and Rewilding
Sow Study Sustain stands for Places People, Planet and Inclusivity in every detail, so it must understand the importance of biodiversity and rewilding in creating resilient ecosystems. Our fruit forest is therefore designed to support a diverse range of people, plant and animal life, enhancing local biodiversity and contributing to a healthier environment for all, namely the people, the produce, the minibeasts and the pollinators that make it all move in the right circles.
Growing Healthy Food to Share
Aside putting the LOL back into people, the core mission is to grow healthy, nutritious food that can be shared within the community. By fostering a culture of sharing and collaboration, the company strengthens community bonds and promotes food security. It is true degrowth to natural growth, because once a micro farm or fruit forest is set up, no more money is needed, just human energy and the healthy food they eat and the community bond they share, provides that. Working in the right circles but using a non financial profit motive.
Empowering Local Communities
This in turn empowers local communities to take control of their food production through workshops, informal educational programs and hands-on experience. Sow Study Sustain encourages less confident individuals as super growers to grow food at home, then when they are ready they can participate in community growing hubs at local allotments or the main micro-farm itself. When you begin to smile, you get the reassurance of the world smiling back.
Health, Wellbeing, and Local Engagement
We all grow with Sow Study Sustain because we share and co promote outdoor activities, healthy eating, and community engagement, which contributes to the overall well-being of Lincolnshire residents. Ecolearn CIC’s initiatives foster a deeper connection with nature and inspire people to take an active role in shaping their local communities and making them more resilient.
So best fruit forward, what best grows in a British Fruit Forest?
EcoLearn CIC’s fruit forests are being carefully curated to thrive in the UK climate, both in open-air and protected environments like netted tunnels and polytunnels. Here are some of the best fruit options:
Open-Air:
- Apples: A quintessential British fruit, apples are hardy and offer a wide range of varieties suitable for different tastes and uses.
- Pears: Similar to apples, pears are versatile and well-suited to our moody climate.
- Plums: Plums are relatively easy to grow and provide a sweet and juicy treat.
- Cherries: Cherries require some netted protection from birds but thrive in British gardens.
- The Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and gooseberries are all excellent choices for open-air cultivation.
Extended Seasons with Protected Environments (Netted Tunnels and Polytunnels):
- Peaches and Nectarines: These delicate fruits benefit from the warmth and protection of a polytunnel.
- Apricots: Similar to peaches and nectarines, apricots thrive in warmer conditions.
- Grapes: Grapes can be successfully grown in the UK with the right variety and protection.
- Figs: Figs love the warmth of a polytunnel and are delicious fruit.
By incorporating a diverse range of fruits in both open-air and protected environments, EcoLearn CIC aims to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the year, providing the community with fresh, nutritious, and locally-grown produce. Our innovative approach to food production and community engagement is a shining example of sustainability in action. By demonstrating the benefits of circular economy and sustainable practices, together with peo0ple and planet we are paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally conscious future. Sow Study Sustain!
