Ramli Agricultural System
The Ramli Agricultural System is a traditional farming technique developed in the coastal lagoons of Ghar El Melh, northern Tunisia. It grows vegetables on sandy soils using a passive irrigation system that relies on rainwater stored above saline groundwater. This freshwater rises by capillary action to nourish plant roots, enabling sustainable crop production in areas with limited arable land and freshwater resources.
Country:
The Ramli Agricultural System is a traditional farming technique developed in the coastal lagoons of Ghar El Melh, northern Tunisia. It consists of growing vegetables on sandy substrates using a passive irrigation system. Crops benefit from fresh rainwater stored above saline groundwater, which rises by capillary action to nourish the roots without the need for artificial irrigation. Developed in the 17th century, this ingenious system enables sustainable food production in areas with limited arable land and freshwater resources.
Water use efficiency
Main theme:
African
Region:
450 - 650
Precipitation (mm):
Medium
Application difficulty:
2, 6, 11, 13 and 15
SDGs impacted:
Gravity
Energy used:
70 - 90
Efficiency (%):
Rural
Sector:
The system promotes efficient water use by harnessing a natural freshwater lens without the need for artificial irrigation or pumping. It also helps conserve coastal aquifers, reduces the risk of saltwater intrusion, maintains soil fertility, protects lagoon and coastal ecosystems, preserves agricultural biodiversity, and enhances climate resilience through a low-impact production system.
Expected environmental impact:
$5000 - $10000 / ha
Estimated value: