What biodiversity means and why it is so important. With Giusi Casucci, Director of LAG Langhe Roero Leader

Bellissimo worked with the four Local Action Groups, or LAGs, active in the rural areas of the Province of Cuneo (LAG Langhe Roero Leader, LAG Mongioie, LAG Tradizione delle Terre Occitane, LAG Valli Gesso Vermenagna Pesio) to promote the value of agri-food biodiversity. The initiative, in collaboration with the Cuneo Chamber of Commerce, gave rise to the Vivo perché vario project and its first activities: a poster campaign in the main towns of the territory (Cuneo, Alba, Bra…) and an installation in the city for the Cuneo Montagna festival. We asked Giusi Casucci, Director of the LAG active in the Langhe and Roero region (here acting as spokesperson for the entire group), to explain why agri-food diversity is so important for these areas of Piedmont, which range from gentle hills to high-altitude valleys.

What is the current situation in your territories?

These are very diverse territories, both morphologically and socially, but they share common challenges: gradual depopulation and aging, a reduction in services, and in some areas, limited connectivity. On the other hand, they are rich in food products and landscapes. Compared to the past, there is also greater awareness of the value of this heritage.

What role can biodiversity play, then?

Today, biodiversity is central to European and national strategies. The reference point is the One Health approach, which links the health of the planet, animals, and people. Within this framework, we GALs have recognized biodiversity as one of the defining features of our rural, hilly, and mountainous territories.

What does this involve exactly?

We’re talking about the variety of animal breeds and plant species, as well as the many products resulting from local know-how passed down through generations. For us, biodiversity is a prism with infinite facets, reflected in every aspect of life: the landscape and ecosystems, the economy and tourism, the identity of communities, the pleasure of taste, and human health.

Let’s take it a step further. How are local varieties, the environment, and health connected?

It has been a long, gradual process. Local varieties have adapted to different climates and environments, often through sustainable techniques that allowed cultivation even on steep slopes. Over time, they have created unique rural landscapes that are now a cultural, economic, and environmental heritage. These landscapes are essential for ecosystem protection, preventing soil erosion, and promoting quality tourism in marginal areas, where human presence helps safeguard the land. Local varieties are in harmony with the natural resources of their environment, are often more resistant to pathogens and pests, and therefore require fewer external inputs: less water, fertilizers, pesticides, and antibiotics. Consumed in season and at the right stage of ripeness, these products have unique flavors and aromas and can be more nutritious and beneficial to health.

Could you give an example?

Ancient grains like rye and spelt have a richer nutritional profile than modern varieties and are more digestible due to a different type of gluten, with cultivation techniques that are more sustainable. Or alpine cheeses made from the milk of grazing cows. What are the benefits of grazing? A diet of wild herbs and alpine floral species gives the milk —and therefore the cheese— an aromatic profile that cannot be replicated elsewhere, shaped by biodiversity and the unique climate of the mountain environment. Additionally, grazing enriches the soil with organic matter, a key factor for maintaining microbial diversity and preserving soil fertility.

And the economic benefits?

They are significant. These ancient grains and alpine cheeses provide important diversification for producers. On one hand, they increase income opportunities for farmers, and on the other, they meet the growing demand from consumers who care about sustainable, healthy, and environmentally responsible food.

Why a communication campaign? What message do you want to convey?

The concept of biodiversity is often poorly understood or perceived as distant from everyday life. We want to present it in concrete, relatable terms rather than abstract or academic ones. Our goal is to raise awareness and demonstrate the practical benefits of biodiversity from multiple perspectives, helping people imagine an active role for themselves. Ultimately, the aim is to encourage behaviors that support biodiversity, along with all the associated benefits.

What did you appreciate most about Bellissimo’s work?

To highlight the many facets of agri-food biodiversity, we organized working tables with experts from diverse professional backgrounds. Bellissimo participated from the start, guiding and supporting the discussions. We greatly appreciated the combination of synthesis and creativity: you were able to translate complex concepts into effective, emotionally engaging messages.

Published: Jun 25, 2025