History

In 1998, a European Union agricultural diversification programme named CARMINA was launched. Its aim was to take stock of the possibilities of Calendula oil for industrial uses while at the same time optimizing the production chain of calendula oil. Calendula oil, extracted from the SEEDS of pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) proved promising. Several methods of extraction were tried and improved. The first new seed varieties with increased oil productivity were cultivated, applications of the oil in the manufacture of paints and coating were tested.
Agricultural production accross Europe was proven possible with lowest cost prices in areas with shorter seasons, moderate rainfall, no severe night frost after sowing and day temperatures not exceeding 30 °C for long periods.

In 2002, an international PESP-project was started, which investigated the possibilities of a production chain with Morocco (North Africa). The extraction and agricultural production proved favourable, even on non-irrigated fields which are easily available there.

In 2005 the Transforum Agro and Green (TAG) project was initiated. Its aims are:

• Development of (several) International Production Chains.
• Technological Development of Paint Systems without Harmful Volatile Organic Compounds, based on Calendula Oil.
• Futher Development of the Cultivation and Oil Yield by Means of Improved plant varieties.

Having realized these goals, the time has come to increase and speed up production.
That is why Calendula Oil Ltd. was founded in 2006.
For more information: See Organization.