Tuscany has always been synonymous with harmonious landscapes and authentic living, but in recent years it has also emerged as a model of sustainability and green innovation. Here, the ancient meets the modern: vineyards cultivated according to millenary traditions coexist with new practices of organic farming, centuries-old olive groves stand alongside agroforestry projects, and rural villages become laboratories for energy communities and responsible tourism.
Living in Tuscany today means choosing not only beauty but also a sustainable future, built on renewable energy, farm-to-table food, slow mobility, and respect for natural cycles. More and more families, professionals, and expats are deciding to move here, drawn by a lifestyle in balance with nature, where quality of life is measured in daily well-being and in the ability to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing comfort.
With the vineyards of Chianti, the olive groves of the Val d’Orcia, and the communities of Maremma and Lunigiana, Tuscany represents a living laboratory for those who dream of residing in a refined rural setting capable of combining tradition, landscape, and a sustainable future.
Organic farming: numbers and regional leadership
Tuscany is one of the greenest regions in Italy. With over 37.5% of its agricultural land cultivated organically, it has far surpassed the 25% target set by the European Farm to Fork plan. The number of operators has also grown significantly: in 2021 there were 6,974 organic farms, up from 5,987 the previous year (+16.5%), with organic surface area rising from 180,242 to 225,295 hectares (+25%). The Region has also promoted the creation of “biological districts” with specific legislation (Law 51/2019), bringing together farmers, citizens, local governments, and tourism operators on a shared path toward sustainable development.
A sustainable driver: biodiversity, regenerative agriculture, and bioeconomy
Organic farming is part of a broader cultural shift. Regenerative practices such as crop rotation, soil cover, and biomass return enhance fertility and resilience, improving soil health while reducing environmental impact. Tuscany also invests in an ethical and inclusive bioeconomy: supporting women farmers, promoting digital innovation, improving soil sustainability, water efficiency, and climate adaptation.
Municipalities becoming energy communities
Tuscany is encouraging renewable energy communities, legal entities run by citizens, businesses, and public administrations to produce and share green energy at a local level. Within just three years, around 15 active communities have been created, with 19 plants (1.8 MW) powering 93 users. The Region has also launched a €20 million call to support new projects in larger municipalities and inland areas. These communities foster self-production of energy, cost reduction, and greater independence from large operators.
Short supply chains and sustainable tourism
Short supply chains are a deeply rooted and strategic practice in Tuscany. They reduce the distance between producer and consumer, enhance the value of small farmers, and foster a transparent, solidarity-based economy. Farmers’ markets and Solidarity Purchase Groups (GAS) are widespread practices that link production to territory and community.
Wind and solar energy: expanding sustainable plants
Across Tuscany, several wind farms are already active, such as those in Montemignaio (Arezzo), Scansano (Grosseto), and Gello (Pisa), with dozens of turbines harnessing clean energy. Solar energy, often part of community energy projects, is also expanding as a widespread renewable resource.