Search Results (84)

International markets are placing increasing importance on sustainability benchmarks that encompass not only environmental but also social and economic dimensions. This study investigates whether cooperative wineries, particularly those composed of small-scale producers, can meet these growing demands. Sixteen winegrowers from a cooperative winery in the Douro region of Portugal were surveyed using indicators aligned with the National Sustainability Certification Benchmark for the Wine Sector (RNCSSV). The survey captured practices from the 2022/2023 season to assess readiness for certification and examine viticultural practices affecting sustainability. Results highlight structural challenges: 57% of respondents operate as family-run businesses, often with informal organizational practices—only one-third of which met the 50% certification threshold. Nevertheless, there is evidence of a transition toward sustainable viticulture. Many producers reported soil cover practices and reduced herbicide use (19% no longer apply them), with positive implications for soil conservation and yield stability, particularly where water is available. Despite constraints in data detail, particularly regarding pesticide use and field practices, the study provides a solid empirical basis for targeted sustainability efforts. These findings may support the development of simplified tools and tailored strategies to foster sustainability transitions in cooperative winegrowing contexts. Full article

The Iberian region relies heavily on groundwater and is highly vulnerable to climate variability, making it crucial to understand factors influencing water availability. The aim of this research was to assess how large-scale climate patterns affect total water storage anomalies (TWSAs) in Iberia, particularly in relation to persistent droughts and floods. To address this, I analyzed TWSAs derived from a reconstructed dataset (GRACE-REC) spanning from 1980 to 2019, first at the scale of the entire Iberian Peninsula and then across its main river basins. The links between the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), East Atlantic (EA) and Scandinavian (SCAND) patterns, TWSAs, and hydrological extremes were quantified using wavelet and principal component analysis. The results reveal that the NAO exerts the strongest multiyear influence on TWSAs, with periodicities of approximately 10 and 6.5 years, particularly in the southern river basins (Tagus, Guadiana, and Guadalquivir). EA and SCAND have stronger influences in the northern basins (Douro, Minho, and Ebro), driving 2- to 3.5-year cycles. Coupled phases of climate patterns, such as NAO+ and EA− (or SCAND−), correspond to extreme droughts, whereas NAO− and EA+ (or SCAND+) correspond to wet conditions. Full article

The Touriga Nacional grape variety is renowned in Portuguese red wines for its intense color and aromatic complexity, largely attributed to its rich phenolic composition. Several factors influence the phenolic profile of wines, including edapho-climatic conditions, grape variety, and winemaking techniques such as fermentation, maceration, barrel aging, and maturation. In this study, the technique for winemaking was the only controlled variable, allowing for a specific evaluation of its impact on phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity. Ten single-varietal Touriga Nacional wine samples from the 2019 vintage, produced in the Cima Corgo sub-region of the Douro by different wineries, were analyzed. The phenolic composition was determined using colorimetric methods to quantify total phenols, ortho-diphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and tannins. Antioxidant capacity was assessed through the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays. Since all wines shared the same grape variety, region, and harvest year, the fermentation technique was the main differentiating factor, enabling a direct comparison of its influence on phenolic extraction and antioxidant properties. Additionally, Reversed-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Photodiode Array Detection coupled with Mass Spectrometry (RP-HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS) was employed to identify and quantify individual phenolic compounds. This study highlights the key role of winemaking techniques in modulating the phenolic composition and antioxidant potential of Touriga Nacional wines. Full article

Wine tourism plays an important role in the development of the local economy but also in the promotion of Portuguese wines in Europe and the world. Enotourism is also a tool to achieve sustainable development through the promotion of wine producers and the preservation of the cultural landscape. At the same time, it can increase the living standards of the population, generating jobs and additional income. The main objective of the study was to present the level of development of wine tourism and to identify the benefits associated with its development in accordance with the concept of sustainable development. The study used qualitative and quantitative research. A spatial analysis of the determinants of demographic development and wine production based on diagnostic indicators was carried out using the Charvat and Schneider indexes. A correlation relationship was identified between the following diagnostic characteristics: wine production and wine tourism development, on the one hand, and tourism development and demography. The study identified problem areas, e.g., demographic regression and economic progression (based on wine production), and identified the relationship between wine production and wine tourism development and demographic development. The study area was the traditional European wine region of Douro wine region in Portugal. The UNESCO cultural landscape has been shaped by human activities over the centuries. An original research procedure was developed to diagnose the state of the LAUs and determine the impact of wine tourism on their development. The results of the research indicate that wine tourism is an example of tourism on the UNESCO trail, where production and consumption take place for the benefit of both tourists and entrepreneurs. Enotourism is also seen as an important source of income and an enabler of socio-economic development. Full article

This study investigates the potential of utilizing livestock waste and vineyard residues for sustainable energy production in Portugal. Through the physical and chemical characterization of swine waste, grape seeds and skins, cork powder, sawdust, and biochar, 53 distinct samples, including 11 individual biomasses and their derived mixtures, were analyzed to identify optimal combinations for biofuel pellet production. The best-performing mixture, composed of 50% swine waste, 25% grape seeds and skins, and 25% cork powder, achieved a Lower Heating Value (LHV) of 18.34 MJ/kg and low ash content, qualifying it as a class B pellet. This mixture offers significant energy potential while minimizing environmental impacts. The research also presents three energy valorization scenarios, with the most balanced scenario meeting up to 6% of Portugal’s electricity demand and providing energy savings equivalent to 485,463 tons of oil equivalent (toe) annually. A case study on a “Case Study Farm” in the Douro region, managing 2000 pigs and producing 500 tons of wine grapes annually, demonstrated that implementing the optimal biomass mixture could generate 3854 MWh of heat and 1156 MWh of electricity per year. This could result in annual revenues of EUR 189,258 from pellet sales, covering the initial investment of EUR 283,938 within 6.36 years, with a total surplus of EUR 689,666 over 20 years. These findings highlight the economic viability and environmental benefits of converting agricultural waste into renewable energy, contributing to Portugal’s carbon neutrality and reducing energy dependence. Full article

The Douro Demarcated Region is fundamental to local cultural and economic identity. Despite its importance, the region faces the challenge of abandoned vineyard plots, caused, among other factors, by the high costs of maintaining vineyards on hilly terrain. To solve this problem, the European Union (EU) offers subsidies to encourage active cultivation, with the aim of protecting the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. However, monitoring actively cultivated vineyards and those that have been abandoned presents considerable logistical challenges. With 43,843 vineyards spread over 250,000 hectares of rugged terrain, control of these plots is limited, which hampers the effectiveness of preservation and incentive initiatives. Currently, the EU only inspects 5 per cent of farmers annually, which results in insufficient coverage to ensure that subsidies are properly used and vineyards are actively maintained. To complement this limited monitoring, organisations such as the Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e do Porto (IVDP) use aerial and satellite images, which are manually analysed to identify abandoned or active plots. To overcome these limitations, images can be analysed using deep learning methods, which have already shown great potential in agricultural applications. In this context, our research group has carried out some preliminary evaluations for the automatic detection of abandoned vineyards using deep learning models, which, despite showing promising results on the dataset used, proved to be limited when applied to images of the entire region. In this study, a new dataset was expanded to 137,000 images collected between 2018 and 2023, filling critical gaps in the previous datasets by including greater temporal and spatial diversity. Subsequently, a careful evaluation was carried out with various DL models. As a result, the ViT_b32 model demonstrated superior performance, achieving an average accuracy of 0.99 and an F1 score of 0.98, outperforming CNN-based models. In addition to the excellent results obtained, this dataset represents a significant contribution to advancing research in precision viticulture, providing a solid and relevant basis for future studies and driving the development of solutions applied to vineyard monitoring in the Douro Demarcated Region. These advances not only improve efficiency in detecting abandoned plots, but also contribute significantly to optimising the use of subsidies in the region. Full article

Climate change is expected to affect grapevine physiology, berry quality, and yield in the Douro Demarcated Region (DDR). In this study, nettle (NE) and Japanese knotweed (JKE) extracts were tested to verify their biostimulant effect on the physiological and biochemical parameters of grapevine leaves and in vine yields. In fact, some parameters were improved after foliar application of the plant extracts, namely the photosynthetic activity and consequently, the levels of photosynthetic pigments (Clb), starch, and total soluble sugars. We also observed a reduction in lipid peroxidation, which could play a crucial role in protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage induced by the climatic conditions prevalent in this region. Therefore, we confirmed that the foliar application of plant extracts, along with the enhancement of secondary metabolites and the upregulation of plant defense genes, as previously reported, resulted in the enhancement of grapevine physiology, while also increasing the yield at harvest. In the future, these plant extracts could serve as a vital tool for winegrowers in mitigating the effects of expected changes in climatic conditions. Full article

The olive oil industry generates large volumes of by-products, creating notable environmental and economic concerns. Among these, olive cake (OC)—a primary by-product of olive oil extraction—stands out due to its high content of bioactive compounds and potential for value-added recycling. This study focused on characterizing six OC samples from the Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro regions, collected at different processing times and mills. The samples included two derived from pressing (COC), two from two-phase centrifugation (TPOC; one partially pitted and one dehydrated), and two exhausted OC (EOC) samples. Fundamental analyses assessed total phenols, ortho-diphenols, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, and tannin content. Results revealed significant variation (p < 0.05) in phenolic composition, namely ortho-diphenols and flavonoid levels among the samples. EOC 2 exhibited the highest concentrations (19.61, 21.82, and 20.12 mg CAT/g, respectively), while COC 2 had the lowest (5.08, 5.08, and 2.76 mg GA/g, respectively). This correlated with elevated antioxidant activity in EOC 2, as measured by FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assays (129.98, 78.00, and 56.65 μmol Trolox/g). In contrast, COC 1 and COC 2 displayed the lowest antioxidant activities (32.61 μmol Trolox/g in FRAP and 17.24 and 18.98 μmol Trolox/g in DPPH). Tannin analysis showed the highest total tannin content in the dehydrated and pitted OC samples (250.31 and 240.89 mg CAT/100 g), with COC 2 showing the lowest (88.17 mg CAT/100 g). Condensed tannin content varied significantly, with EOC 2 presenting the highest level (328.17 mg CAT/100 g) and COC 2 the lowest one (20.56 mg CAT/100 g). Through HPLC-PDA-MS, 22 compounds were identified, with luteolin and verbascoside being particularly prevalent. This in-depth characterization supports the potential valorization of olive by-products, advancing sustainability and promoting a circular economy in the olive oil sector. Full article

Climate change threatens established agricultural systems and production, driving the need for adaptation and mitigation strategies. Vitiforestry, an alternative cultivation system combining trees and shrubs in the vineyard, promotes environmental sustainability and offers a possible adaptation strategy to climate change. This work scrutinizes the impact of shading on vineyards using an Integrated Model of Vineyard Shading and Climate Adaptation (IMVSCA), supported by a system dynamics approach. This model estimates solar radiation and computes daily and annual trends of insolation, air temperature, and relative humidity to shading and its influence on vineyard growth stages. It also assesses the effects of shading-related extreme weather events and the occurrence of grapevine disease development driven by daily weather conditions and zoning adaptations. The pilot results depict the effects of tree shading on vineyards, namely the impacts of solar radiation and air temperature on vine phenology, pollination, pollen germination, fungal diseases, and the complimentary indicators of grape production and quality. Our modeling framework and findings suggest that vitiforestry could be an interesting climate change adaptation technique, providing a starting point for further studies in this scope. Full article

Rising temperatures and water scarcity due to climate change are significant challenges for Mediterranean viticulture, particularly in the Douro Valley, a prominent winemaking region. Silicon (Si) has gained attention as a potential solution for mitigating these environmental stresses, especially in areas with limited water resources. This study explores the foliar application of Si as a promising strategy to reduce water requirements in vineyards, specifically for the Touriga Franca variety, thereby supporting more sustainable water use. Four treatments were tested: non-irrigated control (C−), an irrigated control under a deficit irrigation regime (25% ETc; C+), and two Si concentrations (7% Si-Si1 and 20% Si-Si2) applied to non-irrigated plants. Results demonstrate that Si-treated plants improved physiological resilience, as evidenced by enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, greater water-use efficiency, and higher biochemical quality in both leaves and berries. Additionally, Si application increased leaf flavonoids and simultaneously improved must composition due to its overall influence on vine physiology, indicating its potential as a sustainable alternative to irrigation for reducing summer stress. This research suggests that foliar Si application could be a valuable, eco-friendly strategy to support sustainable viticulture under increasingly arid conditions, reducing the irrigation needs. Full article

Wine vinegar, valued for its ancient origins and culinary versatility, has garnered scientific interest due to its complex composition and potential health benefits. This study aims to explore the nutritional and bioactive properties of different wine vinegars, focusing on their amino acid content, particularly tryptophan-derived molecules such as serotonin and melatonin. White wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, port wine vinegar, and balsamic vinegar from the Douro and Rioja regions were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography and solid-phase extraction (HPLC-SPE). The study examined the amino acid profiles and the presence of serotonin and melatonin across the samples. The analysis revealed the presence of significant bioactive amino acids, including arginine (found in sample 059 at 61.21 mmol/L), alanine (in a concentration of 30.33 mmol/L in sample 209), and threonine (sample 336 presented the highest concentration—71.47 mmol/L), which have been linked to cardiovascular health, immune system support, and mucosal regulation. The amino acid content varied among the vinegar types, with slower acetification and prolonged aging reducing their concentrations. Tryptophan was mainly found in sample 059 (30.54 mmol/L). These findings, with their potential to influence the scientific community’s understanding of the health-promoting properties of wine vinegar, particularly its amino acid content and the potential influence of production processes on bioactive molecules, are of great interest. Full article

Wine production is one of the most important agricultural activities. The winemaking process generates a considerable volume of different residues characterized as by-products, such as pomace, seeds, stems, and skins. By-products are rich in polyphenols with antioxidant and antibacterial properties and may act as bacteriostatic or bactericidal agents against food-borne pathogens, improving food safety by enhancing antibiotic efficacy and reducing bacterial resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of grape components (skins, seeds, and stems) from three red grape varieties (Periquita, Gamay, and Donzelinho Tinto) and determine their antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including Escherichia coli in food-producing animals and Listeria monocytogenes from food products and food-related environments. Ten phenolic compounds were quantified in these red grape varieties, with specific compounds found in different parts of the grape, including phenolic acids and flavonoids. Flavonoids are abundant in seeds and stems, malvidin-3-O-glucoside being the main anthocyanin in skins. The ethanolic extract from the seeds showed in vitro concentration-dependent activity against reactive species like ^•NO and O₂^•−. Gamay extract was the most effective, followed by Donzelinho Tinto and Periquita. Extracts showed varying antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with stronger effects on Gram-positive bacteria. L. monocytogenes was more susceptible, while E. coli was limited to three strains. Seeds exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, followed by stems. The results of our study provide evidence of the potential of grape by-products, particularly seeds, as sources of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antibacterial properties, offering promising avenues for enhancing food safety and combating antibiotic resistance in food production and related environments. Full article

This study investigates how grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) respond to shading induced by artificial nets, focusing on physiological and metabolic changes. Through a multidisciplinary approach, grapevines’ adaptations to shading are presented via biochemical analyses and hyperspectral data that are then combined with systems biology techniques. In the study, conducted in a ‘Moscatel Galego Branco’ vineyard in Portugal’s Douro Wine Region during post-veraison, shading was applied and predawn leaf water potential (${\Psi }_{pd}$) was then measured to assess water stress. Biochemical analyses and hyperspectral data were integrated to explore adaptations to shading, revealing higher chlorophyll levels (chlorophyll a-b 117.39% higher) and increased Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels in unshaded vines (52.10% higher). Using a self-learning artificial intelligence algorithm (SL-AI), simulations highlighted ROS’s role in stress response and accurately predicted chlorophyll a (R²: 0.92, MAPE: 24.39%), chlorophyll b (R²: 0.96, MAPE: 17.61%), and ROS levels (R²: 0.76, MAPE: 52.17%). In silico simulations employing flux balance analysis (FBA) elucidated distinct metabolic phenotypes between shaded and unshaded vines across cellular compartments. Integrating these findings provides a systems biology approach for understanding grapevine responses to environmental stressors. The leveraging of advanced omics technologies and precise metabolic models holds immense potential for untangling grapevine metabolism and optimizing viticultural practices for enhanced productivity and quality. Full article

The industrialisation of agriculture and changes in production systems have contributed to a biodiversity decline worldwide. Developing accurate and adequate assessment methods can encourage farmers to support more sustainable agricultural management. This study presents a decision support system to promote agrobiodiversity that incorporates not only a quantitative assessment of relevant indicators of agrobiodiversity performance but also provides enhancement practice recommendations and associated benefits, presenting an action plan in order of priority. Additionally, the decision support system allows a visual comparison between biodiversity composite indicators and indicators representing pest control and crop yield. Since grape cultivation is considered one of the most intensive agricultural systems, thus significantly impacting biodiversity, the elaborated decision support system was tested on a viticultural agroecosystem in the demarcated Douro region in Portugal. The results demonstrated the decision support system functioning according to the selected methodology and allowed the identification of future lines for investigation. During the analysed period, the following were verified: an increase of 2% in the biodiversity indicator, 130% in harvest yield, and 2077% in the enemy-to-pest ratio. It is expected that the elaborated DSS will offer a significant contribution by bridging communication gaps on alternative management options to improve biodiversity performance in agricultural systems. Full article

Several sectors, such as agriculture and renewable energy systems, rely heavily on weather variables that are characterized by intermittent patterns. Many studies use regression and deep learning methods for weather forecasting to deal with this variability. This research employs regression models to estimate missing historical data and three different time horizons, incorporating long short-term memory (LSTM) to forecast short- to medium-term weather conditions at Quinta de Santa Bárbara in the Douro region. Additionally, a genetic algorithm (GA) is used to optimize the LSTM hyperparameters. The results obtained show that the proposed optimized LSTM effectively reduced the evaluation metrics across different time horizons. The obtained results underscore the importance of accurate weather forecasting in making important decisions in various sectors. Full article