Cactus pear as a potential agricultural and energy source in Italy

A startup called Wakonda, founded by Andrea Ortenzi and his associates, has come with an innovative approach to address agricultural challenges in southern Italy, particularly in the Puglia region, which has been affected by climate change, drought, and plant diseases. The focus is on cultivating Opuntia Ficus, commonly known as the cactus pear or prickly pear, which is seen as a versatile and profitable crop with multiple applications, including biofuel production.