Today was one of those days where I had to pinch myself to remind me that I am actually being paid to be here and do this work. It was an early start to drive down to Metković to interview mandarin farmers that have recently gained EurepGAP certification. The drive was spectacular, watching the sun risking over the Adriatic coast and enjoying the company of my driver and translator provided by the project.
Our company has helped a group of 28 farmers to get EurepGAP certification so their mandarins can be sold into supermarkets in Western Europe. Most supermarkets in W. Europe are now requiring this certification that basically ensures triple bottom line accounting – environmental, social and financial benefits to the farmer. The certification ensures that neither the farmers nor the environment is harmed from the use of pesticides and fertilizer and that they get a fair price for their product. These farmers were the first in Croatia to receive the certification at the end of last year.
On the way back to Split, we stopped off in the little town of Omiš (o-mish). It is a tiny little town built between the mountain and the sea with a river running through the middle. With no room to expand, it still has its medieval architecture completely in tact. We walked around the town and passed several open doors of wine cellars with small groups of oldies sitting around an enjoying an afternoon tipple. When it started raining we jumped in the car and headed home.
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