Pietro Franco

Dr Pietro Franco, born and raised in Matera, completed his Master’s degree at the Ocean University in Qingdao, China, and PhD in Marine Biology at the Ocean University in Keelung, Taiwan. Following his studies, he conducted research on plankton and ocean biodiversity, including sampling experiences in cruises in the South China Sea. In 2016, he returned to Matera to establish his professional base and dedicate his work to the region. The same year, he founded Rocciaviva, a non-governmental organisation focused on the ecological restoration of degraded land in southern Italy and on developing a network of practitioners and collaborators working in land regeneration. He subsequently undertook research into permaculture and ecological restoration practices, analysing international case studies to assess their applicability to the Matera region, particularly in response to soil degradation associated with intensive industrial monoculture. In 2023, Rocciaviva purchased 13 hectares of land in Oppido Lucano, in close proximity to Matera, and initiated the Magnus Lucus project. Magnus Lucus operates in collaboration with Ecosystem Restoration Communities and with Plant for the Planet Italy, where Pietro Franco is one of the project managers. The project aims to expand the restoration area over time, with the objective of regenerating a larger contiguous ecosystem in the Basilicata region.

Pietro @ DAI:

2025-2026 COOP study group ~ TENDING FORESTS IN OUR MINDS