The European Commission has announced the adoption of a new strategic approach to research and innovation across Europe, covering agriculture, forestry, rural areas and food systems.
The new approach combines two frameworks, AgRI 2040, focusing on agriculture, forestry and rural areas, and Food 2040, focusing on food systems, including fisheries and aquaculture.
Both frameworks will be implemented through Horizon Europe for 2028–2034 and relevant parts of the European Competitiveness Fund.
‘Make a real difference’
“Research and innovation can make a real difference to how we farm and manage our rural areas: from crops that can better withstand drought and extreme temperatures, to faster ways of detecting plant diseases, more sustainable crop protection and digital tools for smarter use of resources like water,” commented Christophe Hansen, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food.
“Our task is to make sure these ideas do not stay in the laboratory, but are tested, adapted to local conditions and turned into practical solutions that can be used and scaled up. In this way, research can have a real impact on the ground, helping farmers and foresters respond to new challenges and build a more competitive, resilient and sustainable agri-food sector.”
Areas of action
AgRI 2040 will cover eight preliminary areas of action: soils and agri-ecosystems; cropping and livestock systems; the bioeconomy; multifunctional forests; rural areas and stronger agri-food value chains; and digitalisation, artificial intelligence and robotics.
Food 2040 will cover six areas: place-based food systems; healthy and sustainable diets; resource efficiency and zero pollution; food environments and consumer empowerment; scaling innovations, business models and fair food-system solutions; and aquatic food.
In addition, the two frameworks share six priorities: competitiveness, start-ups and scaleups; food security, resilience and preparedness; natural resources and circularity; food and feed safety, nutrition and health; fairness; and global cooperation.
“Europe is leading in science and research, but too many breakthrough solutions still struggle to reach consumers and markets,” added Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation.
“The ultimate goal is to help innovators, start-ups and businesses turn bold ideas into innovative solutions that boost competitiveness, strengthen food security, food safety, sustainability and resilience, and deliver real benefits for people and the planet. Europe can lead with confidence, unity and ambition.” Read more here.
