Institute for Oliveculture

The Institute for Oliveculture (IZO) of the Science and Research Centre (ZRS) Koper is the central research, development and professional institution in the field of olive growing in Slovenia.

Its beginnings date back to 1994, when the scientific foundations for olive oil research and the development of modern Slovenian olive growing were laid. Today, the institute brings together researchers and experts whose work contributes to the sustainable development of oliveculture.

The institute’s research work is focused on the quality and authenticity of olive oil, olive production and processing technologies, soil and water management, irrigation, climate change, plant and environmental protection, and digitalization and smart agriculture. The heart of the research work is the Laboratory of the Institute of Olive Growing, which has been systematically building the most extensive database on Slovenian olive oils since 1994 and, as a national reference laboratory, provides top-notch analytical support for research, quality control and development of the industry. Research and professional work is complemented by field trials, demonstration activities and the introduction of innovative solutions into production practice.

The Institute actively cooperates with domestic and international research institutions, producers, the economy and agricultural policy makers. As a provider of public service in olive growing, it represents an important link between science and practice and contributes to the transfer of knowledge, professional training of producers and the introduction of new technologies for sustainable and competitive olive growing.

The vision of the Institute of Oliveculture is to become the leading center of knowledge for olive growing and Mediterranean agriculture in the wider Mediterranean area. By integrating research excellence, laboratory and field infrastructure, international cooperation and direct work in the field, it creates the foundations for a sustainable, climate-resilient and innovative future of oliveculture.

Head: Dr Maja Podgornik, Senior Research Associate

E-mail: info.izo@zrs-kp.si
Tel.: +386 5 663 77 74