Their journey began with a shared vision: to transform their 200,000 square meter legacy into a symbol of sustainable practices. Georges, a physiotherapist and university professor, provided his scientific expertise, while Joseph and Daniel devoted themselves tirelessly to their ancestral land. Together, they embarked on an ambitious mission: to harness the richness of their land’s volcanic soil, empower their community, and bring unique organic products to the world. Since 2012, their commitment to sustainable agriculture has been crowned by obtaining organic certification.

Agro Cedrus today cultivates various herbs, vegetables and fruits (olives, carobs, pomegranates, almonds, figs and pine trees) as well as beekeeping products using good agricultural practices. It also manages a factory which produces, according to good manufacturing practices, various products from carob (molasses, flour, etc.) and certified organic olive, and sells all its products in sustainable packaging.

A Circular Symphony:

Sustainability and innovation are the cornerstone of the Agro Cedrus philosophy. They meticulously conserve water through smart drip irrigation, embracing the benefits of nature. Their production process is a symphony of efficiency, where the “zero waste” principle guides each of their steps. Organic waste is composted, nourishing the earth, while by-products find a new life as livestock feed, minimizing their environmental footprint.

The farm’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in the use of 100% renewable energy in its processing units. Scientific measurements have even confirmed that the farm has a positive carbon footprint, absorbing more CO2 than it emits. This deep conviction of the owners is reflected in their main objective: respecting biodiversity.

Beyond the Ordinary: back to basics based with a touch of innovation:

While others clung to traditional water and energy-intensive methods, Agro Cedrus dared to be different and innovative. They identified market niches, carving out a unique path with products like carob flour. George, through tireless research, has unlocked the great potential of this often overlooked ancestral fruit, extracting its nutritional treasures and creating products like carob flour (as a substitute for cocoa) sought after by many industries and health-conscious consumers around the world.

From Field to Cup:

The innovation doesn’t stop there. Recognizing the growing demand for herbal infusions, Agro Cedrus embarked on a pioneering venture: creating its own line of organic herbal tisanes. Sun-drenched greenhouses nourish a tapestry of herbs like thyme, rosemary, verbena, and aromatic flowers like calendula, cornflower, and chamomile, waiting to be transformed into soothing infusions.

This new line, set to launch in July 2024, promises not only to tantalize taste buds but also create over 8 new jobs, strengthening the local community.

Facing Challenges, Reaping Rewards:

The path has not been without thorns. Climate change loomed, resources were scarce, and the road less traveled often seemed lonely. Yet an unwavering passion and spirit of collaboration fueled their journey. Agro Cedrus was able to weather the storms thanks to solid collaborations with regional partners. This ordeal strengthened the company and its determination. Today, Agro Cedrus provides farmers in the region with a free agricultural engineering and technical assistance service. The company’s factory, the only one of its kind in the region, allows farmers to process their products, saving time and money.

A Beacon of Hope:

Today, Agro Cedrus stands tall as a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. Their story resonates across the region, inspiring others to embrace sustainable practices. With a multitude of niche products in the pipeline and a commitment to expansion, they are poised to not only revolutionize agriculture in Lebanon but also offer the world a taste of their sustainable future.

So, the next time you enjoy a cup of Agro Cedrus herbal tisane or indulge in their unique products, remember – it’s not just a delicious experience, it’s a sip of hope.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Agrocedrus

Photos: courtesy of Agro Cedrus, pexels-hong-son-9128878, and https://www.pbvliban.org/village/menjez/