Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for Organics and agroecology

Summary

Today’s research and innovation (R&I) will shape tomorrow’s food and farming systems. Building on a systems-based approach, R&I in organic and other agroecological practices—knowledge-intensive rather than input-intensive—can drive the transition toward a more sustainable future for all.
TP Organics, the European Technology Platform (ETP) for Research & Innovation in Organics and Agroecology, was established in 2008 and is hosted by IFOAM Organics Europe. Officially recognised by the European Commission since 2013, it published its first Strategic Research & Innovation Agenda (SRIA) in 2009, followed by editions in 2014 and 2019. The new SRIA has been developed with contributions from the OrganicTargets4EU project in preparation for the next EU R&I Framework Programme (FP10), which will succeed Horizon Europe (FP9) and run from 2028 to 2034.
The new SRIA defines the R&I needs of the organic and agroecological sector and outlines requirements for the broader transition of Europe’s food and farming system. As a key advocacy document, it reflects input from stakeholders at EU and national levels.
The SRIA is structured into three parts: an introduction, R&I priorities, and policy recommendations. The introduction presents TP Organics’ vision for organic and agroecological research, centred on the “triple lead for sustainable food systems,” highlights its strategic role in achieving EU competitiveness and food security goals, and emphasises the importance of research funding.
The R&I priorities are organised into three themes: (1) environment, biodiversity, and climate; (2) people, communities, and sustainable livelihoods; and (3) responsible innovation. These represent TP Organics’ core focus for the coming years.
Finally, the document provides policy recommendations on the design of FP10 calls and on innovative, inclusive governance mechanisms to maximise the impact of R&I.