(Photo credit: FRIJ)
As part of the socio-ecological analysis of the Tête de Moine cheese sector, on 13 December 2021 the various stakeholders of the MOVING Multi-Actor Platform (MAP) of Swiss Jura met in Courtemelon (Switzerland) to discuss the resilience and adaptation to climate change of this value chain.
Tête de Moine cheese was selected for the MOVING Reference Region of Swiss Jura because it represents an example in terms of traditional knowledge, identity and valorisation in a fragile ecosystem.
In preparation for this workshop, 13 interviews were conducted with producers and value chain actors to capture their views from the ground. The aim of the workshop was to discuss the results of the surveys and to validate the drivers of change that are likely to have an impact on the quantity of grass available, the pillar of the production chain.
During the workshop, members of the Fondation rurale interjurassienne (FRIJ), the interprofessional association, the chamber of agriculture and the forestry office discussed the future of Tête de Moine cheese in the next 20 years.
The main goal of these discussions was to stimulate reflection to identify and think about possible adaptations of the system by 2040.
It was concluded that, in order to adapt to the effects of climate change, the value chain needs to improve the link between Tête de Moine production and specific regional resources (e.g. extensive woodland grazing). Nevertheless, the issue of producers’ income and quality of life is of primary importance for the MAP members.
To follow the progress and results of the project subscribe to the MOVING’s newsletter!