FEE, Foundation for Environmental Education founded in 1981, is an international non-governmental and non-profit organization based in Denmark.

FEE operates worldwide through its organizations and is present in more than 77 countries worldwide (in Europe, North and South America, Africa, Asia and Oceania). The main objective of FEE programmes is the dissemination of good environmental practices, through multiple education, training and information activities for sustainability.

Spighe verdi (Green ears) is a FEE programme and is “an effective tool for enhancing rural heritage”. Among the indicators, able to offer a picture of the situation of the municipality awarded, “public participation, education for sustainable development, correct land use, the presence of typical agricultural productions, sustainability and innovation in agriculture, waste management with particular regard to differentiation, accessibility for all without limitations”.

The requirements for obtaining green ears are sustainable agriculture, able to enhance the territory, respectful of the environment and quality of life and capable of innovation.

46 municipalities of 13 Italian regions received the ‘Green Ears’ 2020 award. These awards, such as blue flags for the sea, represent a recognition intended for virtuous municipalities. The regions with the highest number of green ears are Marche and Tuscany. Among the indicators considered for the ranking, there are innovation in agriculture, sustainable development, land use, separate collection.