The School for Field Studies (SFS), one of the leading U.S. institutions offering environmental study programs, has selected Tuscany, specifically Greve in Chianti, as the location for its first Italian branch. Each year, around 800 students from the United States participate in semester and summer programs with the SFS, spread across twelve countries on six continents, including destinations like Australia, Bhutan, Cambodia, Chilean Patagonia, and of course, Italy.
These students, who come from numerous colleges and universities across the U.S., conduct research projects under the supervision of expert faculty, presenting their findings to local communities at the end of their programs. The decision to establish a presence in Chianti is not a coincidence: this region is not only famous for its stunning landscapes, but also for its cutting-edge sustainable agriculture, where tradition meets innovation, making it an ideal setting to study agri-food systems in practice.
The academic program, titled “Sustaining Traditions: Food, Farming, and Climate”, focuses on sustainable and traditional food systems. Students will have the opportunity to explore various local agricultural realities, including small to mid-size farms, organic vineyards, and sectors like pastoralism and artisanal fishing in other parts of Tuscany, such as Maremma. The program also takes a comprehensive look at Tuscan agro-environmental systems, covering topics like resource management, environmental policies, and the socio-economic values tied to the region.
Living in a place so deeply connected to sustainability principles gives students the chance to apply theoretical knowledge to everyday life. As Professor Riccardo Simoncini, one of the project coordinators, explains, “It’s not just about studying theory; it’s about experiencing it. Here, students can see firsthand how a sustainable agri-food system works.” This experience not only enriches their academic path but also leaves a lasting personal and cultural impact.
Looking ahead, the School for Field Studies aims to make Greve in Chianti an international research hub for sustainable agricultural systems, with plans to publish student research in scientific journals and organize global seminars and conferences.
In short, Chianti offers a unique study opportunity and serves as a model of how tradition and sustainability can thrive together, preparing students to become tomorrow’s leaders in agriculture and environmental science.
