Phoenix Contact: the Biodiversity Oasis in Mezzago is born

On 17 November, Phoenix Contact set up its "Oasis of Biodiversity" together with 3Bee, the Nature Tech company leading the way in protecting biodiversity through technology. The first nectariferous trees were planted in a limited area within the municipality of Mezzago, an action aimed at fostering biodiversity and the wellbeing of the local fauna and flora. This ambitious project particularly emphasises the importance of the health and well-being of the soil, a vital element that is home to 25% of the world's biodiversity.

Under the guidance of the president of the Gea social cooperative, Carlo Beretta, head of the Oasis, Phoenix Contact planted the first chestnut trees, marking the start of the ambitious project developed in collaboration with 3Bee. The nectariferous trees were strategically selected for their significant contribution to the health of the soil. Thanks to their roots, they improve the fertility of soils, especially those previously subjected to intensive agriculture, through a mechanism of continuous release of chemical and organic substances. These plants also help stabilise the soil, reducing the risk of erosion due to rain and wind, and promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms, thus improving the overall health of the soil.

With the planting of these nectariferous trees in the Oasis of Phoenix Contact, the first technological phase of the project also begins. Thanks to Flora, the 3Bee technology developed in collaboration with the European Space Agency and based on the use of satellite images and their processing by Artificial Intelligence (AI), it will be possible to estimate the potential biodiversity of the area, its boundary conditions and its suitability for feeding pollinating insects. Subsequent phases of the project include the installation of smart hives, equipped with 3Bee Hive-Tech technology, to monitor environmental parameters useful for analysing the surrounding biodiversity and the health of pollinating insects. biodiversity awareness initiatives will also be developed, inviting the local community and beyond to visit the nectariferous forest and, in the coming years, a biolago within the Oasis.

The area was carefully evaluated by 3Bee to ensure adequate plant growth and constant production of nectar and pollen. Plant varieties such as apple, pear and cherry trees have been chosen, which, in addition to promoting biodiversity, will contribute to soil health. To ensure the healthy and prosperous growth of the Phoenix Contact Biodiversity Oasis, tools will be used to prevent water stress and macro- and micronutrient deficiencies. The project also includes plant support stakes and weed management to reduce competition for water and nutrients, especially in the early stages of development and rooting.

The monitoring of the health of the plants within the Phoenix Biodiversity Oasis will take place by means of periodic analyses, with a focus on stem and crown development. One year after planting, it will be possible to have a clear picture of the health of the plants, with a focus on new branches in spring and root development in the soil. In case of weather damage, such as hail, the agronomists team will intervene with emergency pruning to restore the health of the plants.

The oasis is also served by the area aqueduct and by an internal well with a 5000L lung, used for both fertirrigation and emergency irrigation. A micro-irrigation system will also be used to maximise the efficiency of water use: the entire irrigation system is powered by electricity generated exclusively by a photovoltaic system, an aspect that once again emphasises Phoenix Contact's environmental sustainability choices. The Oasis of Biodiversity realised will in fact be managed through well-thought-out procedures and strategies, with a view to protecting biodiversity, with the aim of creating a positive impact on our Planet.

Thanks to the partnership with 3Bee, Phoenix Contact is therefore committed to looking after and growing, within its Oasis, a total of 250 nectariferous trees, which will nourish 375 thousand pollinators each year thanks to the production of approximately 280 kg of nectar and absorb over 13 tonnes of CO2 per year. A concrete and measurable project that demonstrates the company's strong commitment to safeguarding biodiversity, but also the health of the soil, a crucial element for our ecosystem.