We’re officially part of AgroSimbiosisLab
Some announcements are easy to make. Others mark a moment where long‑term values, past decisions, and future plans finally align. This is one of those moments.
Three weeks ago, Finca Astronómica officially became part of AgroSimbiosisLab, a major regional project coordinated by the University of Murcia and supported by Fundación Biodiversidad. The project focuses on the agroecological transition of the Mar Menor basin.
For us, this is not just another collaboration. Instead, it is recognition of a path we started years ago. At the same time, it opens the door to a much broader collective effort.
A visit that confirmed the direction
Two weeks ago, we welcomed Professor José Mª Egea, Full Professor of Botany at the University of Murcia and coordinator of the project “AgroSimbiosis, a living laboratory for the Agroecological Transition of the Mar Menor basin.”
During his visit, we walked the land together. Existing systems were reviewed. Finally, we discussed where Finca Astronómica is heading next.
These conversations matter. They are where science meets territory. More importantly, they are where theory becomes practice.
In addition, we are proud to confirm that Finca Astronómica will appear in the official AgroSimbiosisLab guide‑book, alongside other key initiatives creating measurable environmental and agricultural change in the region.
What is AgroSimbiosisLab?
AgroSimbiosisLab is designed as a living laboratory. This is not a metaphor. It is a working model.
Its objective is to drive real agroecological transition in the Mar Menor basin through:
- soil and biodiversity restoration
- transformation of agricultural practices
- strengthening local and regional food systems
- active collaboration between science, land managers, and society
Rather than isolated pilot actions, the project builds a network of implementation sites and research institutions. Within this network, solutions are tested, refined, and scaled.
In short, this project focuses on doing, measuring, adjusting, and improving. It is not about producing reports that never leave a shelf.
Project scale and institutional framework
AgroSimbiosisLab operates at both regional and national strategic levels.
- Coordinated by: University of Murcia
- Scientific ecosystem: CEBAS–CSIC
- Funded by: Fundación Biodiversidad (MITECO)
- Project duration: 2024–2026
Total budget: approximately €2,000,000
Public funding: approximately €1,800,000
The project is implemented through a selected network of sites and partners. These are chosen for their ability to deliver real agroecological transition, with accountability, monitoring, and long‑term vision.
Therefore, being part of AgroSimbiosisLab means working within a framework of scientific rigor, territorial responsibility, and measurable impact.
Why this matters to us
When we arrived in this area five years ago, we fell in love with the Mar Menor. Its light, its landscape, and its fragile beauty immediately stood out.
However, its vulnerability was equally clear. The need for thoughtful, long‑term care was impossible to ignore.
From the beginning, Finca Astronómica was designed as a low‑impact, regenerative project, integrating:
- off‑grid energy systems
- efficient and responsible water management
- minimal‑impact infrastructure
- deep respect for land, sky, and biodiversity
Sustainability was never an add‑on. Instead, it was the foundation.
Eco‑food: a transition already underway
Today, this philosophy naturally extends into food.
At Finca Astronómica, we are already implementing an eco‑food transition. This approach prioritizes local, certified ecological farms and short supply chains. As a result, food becomes part of the same system as energy, water, and land management.
This strategy supports regional agroecological producers. At the same time, it reduces environmental impact and strengthens local resilience.
It is a first step. More importantly, it is an intentional one.
From sourcing to growing: what comes next
Our collaboration with AgroSimbiosisLab is not static. On the contrary, it is designed to expand.
We are currently in the process of acquiring new agricultural land. On this land, agroecological practices will be implemented from the ground up. All actions will align with the project’s scientific framework and long‑term goals.
This next phase will allow us to move from eco‑food sourcing to active production, experimentation, and knowledge exchange within the AgroSimbiosisLab ecosystem.
The land will become a space where:
- agroecological practices are applied and monitored
- education and public engagement take place
- long‑term territorial responsibility is practiced daily
Where science, land, and people meet
Finca Astronómica exists at an unusual intersection, where astronomy meets land stewardship. Here, science is closely tied to education, and night skies are inseparable from the soil beneath them.
Being part of AgroSimbiosisLab strengthens this intersection. It shows that environmental responsibility does not live in silos. Caring for the sky and caring for the land are part of the same worldview.
Science needs land. Commitment sustains that land. Real change needs both.
We are proud to be part of AgroSimbiosisLab — and even more excited about what lies ahead 🌱✨
