Feasibility Study for the utilization of briarwood

Feasibility Study for the utilization of briarwood

The soil and climatic conditions of the Municipality of Georgios Karaiskaki are favorable for the growth of Erica, a native plant which is used in the region in therapeutic botanology, in apiculture, as well as in the manufacturing of small wooden items, like those of high quality tobacco pipes.

Taking into consideration the above-mentioned remarks, the present paper explores the terms and conditions in setting up an individual enterprise that would process briar root for making semi-finished smoking pipes. According to the financial analysis, the activity appears to bring in a satisfactory income for the self-employed producer, but only as part-time job. To further develop this sector, a number of actions are required on a cooperative basis, vertical integration of production and product certification. Towards this direction, the Municipality of Georgios Karaiskakis, the Region of Epirus and governmental authorities should take the lead in providing counseling and economic support services to local producers.