Historical and Social Insights into the Olive Groves and Landscapes in Alentejo (Portugal): Trajectories of Change and Sociocultural Perceptions

Olive groves are a keystone land use and crop in Portugal, having historically shaped the ecological, economic and socio-cultural values of Portuguese rural landscapes. They are also a key element for the Mediterranean diet and thus also a public health asset. These land-use systems have over the past century undergone radical transformations, following subsequent stages of decline and expansion. Such changes have been triggered by a combination of global market oscillations, socio-cultural shifts, increased availability of water for irrigation and of agrochemical fertilizers and public policy support including public and private funding. Following up from the latest trends towards intensification, globalization and financialization, a series of public debates are arising with contrasted positions being held. These debates are largely underpinned by discourses that too frequently misrepresent historical trends and their complexities. It is expected that improved historical and socio-cultural information contributes towards a better-informed debate that can lead the sector towards consensus, social acceptance and, ultimately, increased sustainability standards.