"Horizon Europe: Food, bio-economy, natural resources, agriculture and environment" Newsletter Issues

Water: a vital resource in our lives (06/05/2024)

A film about water molecules, made in collaboration with the EU-funded project WaterAgri, has been awarded multiple prizes in the EU, the UK, and the US. The short film tells the story of two women bringing people together to celebrate water through dancing.

EuroScience Open Forum - ESOF 2024 (12/06/2024)

The pan-European event is organized every two years in a different city, highlighting European research and mutual learning. Established in 2004, the science conference unites scientists, policymakers, and science enthusiasts. The upcoming edition will be held in Katowice, Poland. Check out the programme and register!

New Mission Soil call is open! (06/05/2024)

A total budget of €134.5 million is available to fund projects that help enhance soil health under the 2024 EU Mission 'A Soil Deal for Europe' call. The deadline to submit your proposal is 8 October 2024. Watch the Info Days recordings and join the upcoming brokerage event on 21-22 May to connect with potential partners.

European Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare opens 1st call for research funding (06/05/2024)

The European Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare (EUPAHW), funded under Horizon Europe, has opened its first call “Supporting the Future of Animal Health and Welfare”. Learn more about this opportunity and join the dedicated webinar for applicants on 14 May 2024.

Are you applying for the Horizon Europe 2024 calls? Check out our Dos and Don’ts! (06/05/2024)

Submitting a project proposal under Horizon Europe is a challenging task that requires careful planning, precise budgeting, and a seamless collaboration with partners. We have prepared some Dos and Don’ts to help you prepare a quality proposal.

High stakes: the Arctic test of sustainable development (06/05/2024)

The ArcticHubs and JUSTNORTH EU-funded projects are helping policymakers reconcile competing demands in a region full of natural resources, beauty, and tradition. The researchers aim to ensure fair and sustainable development in the Arctic region while respecting the needs and traditions of residents.

Be part of the change: Work in aquaculture! (06/05/2024)

Aquaculture is farming the sea and its aquatic organisms while reducing pressure on natural ecosystems and boosting development in coastal areas. The EU-funded project NewTechAqua explains how different profiles and skills are needed in this sector in order to make aquaculture more sustainable and productive. Watch the video!

Up to €63 million available in new Cluster 6 calls! (06/05/2024)

New calls for research proposals worth up to €63 million in total are now open under Horizon Europe for funding projects on sustainable, healthy and fair food systems, fighting climate change, and agriculture. Learn more about the topics open for funding and apply!

Encouraging uptake of sustainable low trophic aquaculture (06/05/2024)

Adopting a circular approach to aquaculture could help feed the Planet’s growing population in a highly sustainable manner. One viable option is to create a sustainable and competitive aquaculture industry. Find out how EU-funded project AquaVitae sets out to address this.

Nature’s threads: creating clothes from the ground up (06/05/2024)

Did you know that fungi have the potential to serve as a sustainable, bendy material within the fashion industry? EU-funded researchers are turning to two such crops in order to tackle the environmental harm of apparel made with synthetic fibres. They will use the web-like structure of the mushroom’s root system – the mycelium – as an alternative for clothing and other products.

Track all funding opportunities for rural areas with the EU Rural Toolkit (06/05/2024)

A new interactive guide is available, mapping all EU funding opportunities for rural areas. It includes funding from 26 different EU funds, examples, and case studies of successful EU fund implementation in rural areas. The guide features inspiring stories on a clickable map and is accessible to local authorities, institutions, businesses, associations, and individuals.

1.269 project ideas received to build a more sustainable, resilient and healthy EU (11/03/2024)

The seven Horizon Europe 2024 Cluster 6 calls for proposals have recently closed. The 1.269 submitted proposals are competing for €890 million in EU funding. Evaluations are starting with the help of independent experts. Successful projects will be informed in June and are expected to start as of November to help the EU deliver on its climate action goals set on the European Green Deal.

Save the date for the EU Missions Info Days (25/04/2024)

The EU Missions Info Days will take place on 25-26 April. There will be sessions dedicated to the five EU Missions: ‘A Soil Deal for Europe’, ‘Adaptation to Climate Change’, ‘Restore our Ocean and Waters’, ‘Climate-neutral and Cities’ and ‘Cancer’. There will also be a session dedicated to the New European Bauhaus. Applicants to the upcoming calls will learn about the kind of projects Horizon Europe aims to fund, and how to submit a good quality proposal.

Do you need funding to restore and protect soil health in your city or region? (11/03/2024)

There is still time to apply for the call launched by the EU-funded project HuMUS. Funded under the EU Mission ‘A Soil Deal for Europe’, HuMUS makes available €600,000 in funding to support 20 local and regional soil health initiatives. The deadline to submit a proposal is 5 April.

This year’s EU Green Week is devoted to water. Organise a partner event! (11/03/2024)

Join the conversation at EU Green Week 2024 as we strive for a water resilience. Are you interested in organising an event on water-related topics? Consider becoming one of the esteemed partners and organise an event on water between May and September 2024. You can apply by 17 March.

Innovative solutions for a more sustainable and just fashion industry (11/03/2024)

Horizon Europe projects are bringing circularity to the fashion industry with sustainable fibres, and new value chains for material reuse, repair and recycling. Discover how the EU-funded projects New Cotton, CISUTAC, FReSCH and FISHSkin are building a sustainable fashion industry that also respects human rights.

“Leadership qualities and accomplishments are not confined by gender but flourish in a supportive environment” (11/03/2024)

Magda Bou Dagher Kharrat leads one of the biggest Green Deal projects managed by REA. On the International Women’s Day, Dr. Kharrat reflects on what is like being a woman coordinator of a large EU-funded project; what has been, as a woman, the biggest challenge during her scientific career; and how is gender equality integrated in the SUPERB project. With 37 partners, SUPERB aims to advance forest restoration across Europe.

Help define the knowledge gaps in research and innovation on soil (11/03/2024)

If your work is related or can have an impact on healthy soils, the EU-funded SOLO project needs you. SOLO has created different roadmaps on the main knowledge gaps on research and innovation on soils across the different objectives of the EU Mission ‘A Deal Soil for Europe’. They are now available for revision. Have your say!

Bioeconomy Changemakers Festival: join this week, in person or online! (12/03/2024)

In the Climate Emergency era, the bioeconomy has the potential for climate mitigation, carbon neutrality, biodiversity restoration and sustainable industry. The main event will take place in Brussels (and web streamed), and REA will be present in a booth to answer questions from visitors on funding opportunities and more. EU projects advancing bioeconomy will take part in the Brussels event and in satellite events organised across Europe.

Join the European Research and Innovation Days 2024 (20/03/2024)

Every year, the European Commission hosts a major event that brings together policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and the public to debate and shape the future of research and innovation in Europe and beyond. It’s a chance to celebrate the outcomes and achievements in research and innovation over the last 40 years. Signup for online participation, or register if you wish to attend on-site.

New European Bauhaus Festival. Registrations are now open! (09/04/2024)

The Festival is an occasion to meet innovators, creators, scientists, people and collectives from all walks of life, contributing to building a sustainable and inclusive future. This is the second edition with events organised in Brussels and across Europe. Discover the programme and register!

135 new projects to begin their research (09/02/2024)

The projects are receiving €897 million in funding to contribute to the sustainable transformation of the EU economy in the areas of food, bioeconomy, natural resources, agriculture and environment. The projects will help reduce environmental degradation, halt and reverse the decline of biodiversity and better manage natural resources while ensuring food and water security.

Tips and tools on how to make the most of your research (09/02/2024)

Do you want to learn more on how to communicate about your EU-funded project? We prepared a summary of tips and tools. Learn all about how to acknowledge EU funding, the difference between communication, dissemination and exploitation as well as data protection and GDPR.

Are you applying for the 2024 Cluster 6 calls? Check out our Dos and Don’ts! (09/02/2024)

The calls for proposals close on 22 February. We have prepared a guide to help you avoid the most common mistakes when applying for funding, such as: confusing terms, output and impact, overwriting beyond the page limit or forgetting Human Resources protocols and the gender dimension in research. Apply the tools the European Commission offers and bring your proposal closer to success!

Fulfilling the Open Science obligation is key when applying for EU funding (09/02/2024)

What is the difference between Open Access and Open Science? How can you comply with Open Science practices? We have compiled a list of Q&A to guide you when applying for EU funding or help you implement open science in your project. Make sure to check it out before submitting your proposal.

Do you need funding to restore and protect soil health in your city or region? (09/02/2024)

There is still time to apply for the call launched by the EU-funded project HuMUS. Funded under the EU Mission ‘A Soil Deal for Europe’, HuMUS makes available €600,000 in funding to support 20 local and regional soil health initiatives. The deadline to submit a proposal is 29 February.

The EU-FarmBook online platform is ready to welcome practice-oriented materials! (09/02/2024)

Your one-stop shop for Horizon Europe content is now available! The platform will contain practical materials for farmers, foresters, advisors, and other rural stakeholders. Watch the recording of the pre-launch online event, offering insights for project coordinators, explores the platform's features and a glimpse into the future.

Register to attend the Bioeconomy Changemakers Festival (13/03/2024)

The EU has invested over €900 million in Cluster 6 projects advancing transformative change towards circular and bio-economies. A more robust bioeconomy could help the EU accelerate its progress towards a low-carbon economy. ️The Festival will focus on the youth and its leading role in the transformation process. The event will be hybrid and registration is already open.

Save the date for the European Research and Innovation Days 2024 (20/03/2024)

Every year, the European Commission hosts a major event that brings together policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and the public to debate and shape the future of research and innovation in Europe and beyond. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the outcomes and achievements in research and innovation over the last 40 years.

Organise a water-related event as a partner of EU Green Week 2024 (29/05/2024)

The EU Green Week 2024 conference is groundbreaking event that promises to be a catalyst for an EU-wide conversation on water resilience. Be a part of it by organising a partner event in Europe and beyond! Apply between 4-17 March.

Horizon Europe to fund research in land, ocean and water for climate action (05/12/2023)

With an overall budget of €75 million, this call for proposals recognises the vital importance of land, oceans, and water in mitigating the effects of the climate change. Specific topics to be funded include: irrigation practices and technologies in agriculture, minimising CO2 emissions in peatlands, and ocean models for regional climate impacts. The deadline to apply for funding is 22 February 2024.

Horizon Europe is funding solutions for the sustainable and circular management of natural resources (05/12/2023)

The EU aims to achieve a low-carbon economy by 2050. The circular economy and bioeconomy call is looking for proposals that, among others, develop new circular solutions for plastics, textile, electronics, furniture value chains, and for the creation more sustainable tourism services. The overall budget is €147.5 million. Apply by 22 February 2024.

Special holiday reading to warm up your mind and your heart (05/12/2023)

In a world in which we often lack the time for what is precious to us, the winter holiday season offers an opportunity to slow down and reflect. In this year’s holiday special, you find a glimpse of our articles about the magic behind the food we receive and the research fighting plastic pollution. Make sure to have a read and allow the holiday spirit to accompany you throughout the winter.

EU funded projects contributing to nature restoration (05/12/2023)

In November, a provisional agreement was reached between the European Parliament and the Council on the Nature Restoration Law. EU research and innovation projects play a significant role in reversing biodiversity loss and restoring nature. Examples of these projects focus on restoring wetlands (WaterLANDS), forests (Superb), coastal ecosystems (RESTCOAST) and freshwater-related ecosystems (MERLIN).

Looking for experts to evaluate funding proposals on agri-food promotional campaigns (05/12/2023)

The European Research Executive Agency is looking for independent professionals in the fields of marketing and agri-food. Selected experts will evaluate proposals submitted under the 2024 Promotion of agricultural products call for proposals. Read more about the eligibility criteria and application process.

On Olive Tree Day we celebrate projects protecting olive trees and the fruit they produce (05/12/2023)

Olive oil is a fundamental part of the Mediterranean diet. However, diseases, dangerous animal species and climate change are all posing growing threats to olive trees. EU-funded projects are working tirelessly to preserve olive oil, Europe’s golden liquid. One of these projects is the OliveFlyBacteria which protects olive trees from insects and pathogens or the GEN4OLIVE finding solutions for olive trees to become more resistant to environmental threats.

REA participated at the Food 2030 Conference (05/12/2023)

Four REA-managed projects took part in the Food 2030 conference to demonstrate their contribution to the sustainable food systems. REA's Head of Department for Green Europe, Paul Webb, also spoke about the role of research and innovation for achieving green and resilient food systems. 10 EU-funded projects managed by REA featured in the Food Village exhibition during the day conference.

The EU funded NewTechAqua project contributes to healthy aquaculture (05/12/2023)

The World Fisheries Day reminds us of the importance to ensure sustainable stocks of fisheries. The project NewTechAqua managed by REA provides a cutting-edge training on fish nutrition and health and helps novel aquaculture solutions to reach the market. At the end of December, the project will validate technologically advanced, resilient and sustainable solutions to broaden and diversify production of finfish, molluscs and microalgae.

Sustainable solutions for water management in India (05/12/2023)

63 million people in India do not have access to clean drinking water. The new Results Pack highlights the ground-breaking work carried out by seven successful projects funded under a pioneering collaboration between the European Union and India’s Department of Science and Technology and Department of Biotechnology. Learn about the funded projects INDIA-H2O, OAVITRA GANCA, PANI WATER, Saraswati 2.0, SPRING, LOTUS and PAVITR.

The European Research and Innovation Days 2024 will be in March. Save the date! (20/03/2024)

Every year, the European Commission hosts a major event that brings together policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and the public to debate and shape the future of research and innovation in Europe and beyond. It’s a chance to celebrate the outcomes and achievements in research and innovation over the last 40 years.

2024 Cluster 6 calls for proposals are open! Don’t miss your chance to apply (03/11/2023)

The calls include 75 new topics in the areas of sustainable food systems, nature-based solutions and biodiversity, and the sustainable development of rural, coastal and urban areas, among others. The overall budget is €890 million in EU funding. If you missed the Cluster 6 Info Days, watch the recording to find out more. Submit your proposal by 22 February 2024.

In need of partners to apply for the 2024 Cluster 6 calls? Use the matchmaking portal! (03/11/2023)

If you need partners or you would like to join a consortium to apply for the 2024 Cluster 6 calls for proposals, a matchmaking portal will be available until 25 December. You can share your research idea with others and meet potential partners.

Tips and tools on how to make the most of your research (03/11/2023)

Do you want to learn more on how to communicate about your EU-funded project? REA prepared a summary of tips and tools to be used for communication about your research. Learn all about how to acknowledge EU funding, the difference between communication, dissemination and exploitation as well as data protection and GDPR.

Citizen Science: an essential ally for sustainable cities (03/11/2023)

Working together with scientist for more sustainable and liveable cities is not only a goal of the European Green deal, but it is also becoming a collective engagement effort for citizens. EU-funded research projects such as DivAirCity, SOCIO-BEE, IMPETUS, MOSAIC, AURORA, and EnviroCitizen are excelling in citizen involvement in urban areas.

EU projects are food heroes because protecting water they are protecting food (03/11/2023)

How we produce and consume our food affects water. That is why this year's World Food Day, on 16 October, was dedicated to this limited resource. EU-funded projects such as ICT4water, InventWater, NetworkNature, limnoplast and IT4WIN are helping spear innovation in tackling water security by digitally transforming the water sector, enabling effective water management, developing solutions to remove microplastics from the environment, and creating new ways of providing accessible and affordable water services.

Two EU-funded projects managed by REA have received the Atlantic Project Award (03/11/2023)

The ASTRAL project was awarded in the International Cooperation category for the creation of the Atlantic Aquaculture Network and multi-trophic labs in Ireland, Scotland, Brazil, South Africa and Argentina. The MAELSTROM project received the award in the Healthy Oceans and Resilient Coasts category for its innovative technologies used to identify, remove, sort and transform all types of collected marine litter into valuable raw materials.

A food production system developed as part of an EU project wins prestigious FAO award (03/11/2023)

The aquaponic system developed by the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA) as a part of the EU-funded project NewTechAqua recently won the MedFish4Ever Award on innovative practices in aquaculture research. The MedFis4Ever award is organised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and it aims to celebrate and promote innovation and creativity as drivers of sustainability in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

Discover EU-funded projects and REA workshops at ECOMONDO (07/11/2023)

EU-funded projects will be at Ecomondo, the reference international event in Europe on circular economy. They will be at the EU stand to present their results on farming, livestock, fisheries, dairy and fruits value chains and urban transformation. Together with CINEA, EISMEA and HADEA, REA will inform visitors about upcoming EU funding opportunities to support research and innovation to make European cities and regions more circular. REA will also take part in three workshops.

Join the PREPSOIL session at the European Mission Soil Week (21/11/2023)

The European Mission Soil Week aims to bring together the European soil community to discuss the challenges for healthy soils, such as sustainable soil management, conservation practices and new business models in farming. Join the sessions of the EU-funded project PREPSOIL on 22 November to discover the project’s mission and activities, soil needs assessments in 20 European regions and insights on living labs, stakeholder interaction and science policy. The event will take place in Madrid, but it will also be livestreamed. Registration is still open.

Join the hybrid Food 2030 conference (04/12/2023)

The European Commission organises a conference on research and innovation for achieving green and resilient food systems. This event will showcase achievements of EU food system-related projects, explore future research and innovation orientations, and levers of change. It will involve a wide range of actors and policy makers for this in-person event, which will also be web streamed and recorded.

17 new projects funded under the Mission Soil to support healthy soils (10/10/2023)

The European Commission will invest €90 million in 17 new research projects that will contribute to the EU Mission: ‘A Soil Deal for Europe'. The projects were selected by independent experts and gather 314 participants from 32 countries to deliver a wide variety of benefits for the restoration and protection of soil by 2030. Most of them have already started their research.

123 proposals are competing for €126 million in funding (10/10/2023)

The 2023 Mission Soil call received 123 proposals. The topics to establish the Living Labs, places where to experiment on the ground, received almost half of the proposals. 16 projects are expected to be funded with the €126 million EU funding available. The evaluations by independent experts are starting. The successful projects are expected to be informed in December.

2024 Cluster 6 calls to open soon. Get ready to apply! (10/10/2023)

Cluster 6 ‘Food, bioeconomy, natural resources, agriculture and environment’ 2024 calls for proposals for EU funding will open on 17 October. An Info Day was organised on 27-28 September for applicants to learn about the topics open for funding. If you could not attend the event, you can watch the recording.

Registration for the European Mission Soil Week is open (21/11/2023)

The European Mission Soil Week aims to bring together the European soil community to discuss the challenges for healthy soils. The event will take place in Madrid, but it will also be livestreamed. Registration is now open.

Join the webinar on ‘Participatory methods to enhance soil health’ (19/10/2023)

The EU-funded project HuMUS invites representatives of European municipalities and regions, EU policymakers, and soil health advocates to discuss soil health regeneration focusing on participatory methods. Registration is required.

Do you need partners to apply for the 2024 Cluster 6 calls? Use the matchmaking portal! (10/10/2023)

If you need partners or you would like to join a consortium to apply for the 2024 Cluster 6 calls for proposals, a matchmaking portal will be available until 25 December. You can share your research idea with others and meet potential cooperation partners.

EU-funded projects at the European Regions and Cities week (09/10/2023)

How can the regeneration of historic urban areas help to achieve climate-neutral cities? How to secure and restore our waters? Why co-creation is important? EU-funded projects managed by REA will try to answer these and more questions at the European Week of Regions and Cities Week.

Behind the scenes of saving tomatoes and cucurbits from viruses (10/10/2023)

The EU-funded project VIRTIGATION has launched a social media series of posts to show the project and its partners work in protecting tomatoes and cucurbits from viruses. The project features, for example, the technology they use to tackle devastating plant viruses, the process of seed multiplication and a state-of-the-art quarantine laboratory for plant pathogens and insect pests.

Submit your proposal to the biodiversity call on time (10/10/2023)

The European Biodiversity Partnership (Biodiversa+), co-founded by the EU, is looking for projects on Nature-based solutions for biodiversity, human well-being and just transformative change. The project proposals can focus on terrestrial, marine, coastal and freshwater. Approximately €40 million is available in funding to support research on biodiversity. Applicants should submit their pre-proposal by 10 November.

Still one month to apply for the 'Aquatic Ecosystem Services' call! (10/10/2023)

The Water4All - Partnership, also co-funded by the EU, is looking for research and innovation projects focusing on aquatic ecosystems, including inland surface water, groundwater, transitional and coastal water. The projects should have water security on top of the objectives. There is approximately €36 million of budget available for funding. Deadline to submit pre-proposals is 13 November.

Register for the upcoming Cluster 6 Info Days (05/09/2023)

2024 Cluster 6 ‘Food, bioeconomy, natural resources, agriculture and environment’ calls will open in October. An Info Day is organised on 27-28 September for applicants to learn about the topics to open for funding. The event will be hybrid. Register now! A Brokerage event will take place on 26 September, but registration is no longer open.

Online resources to get ready to apply for EU funding (05/09/2023)

If you are applying to any of our calls for proposals, check our online resources. There are steps you can follow to make sure you prepare a quality proposal, and aspects you should not forget such as open science, gender dimension in research, and the communication, dissemination and exploitation of your results.

EU Mission Soil calls close on 20 September (05/09/2023)

There are three calls open to restore and protect soils, two of them are open jointly with the EU Missions Ocean and Climate. There are €157 million available for funding. We have compiled a list of dos and don’ts to follow when drafting and submitting your proposal.

Expert in any of the Cluster 6 areas? Join us to select the best proposals for funding (05/09/2023)

We need experts to help us select the best ideas for EU funding. If you would like to work with us as an evaluator, get ready by following few steps: 1) If you are not in our database, register now! If you are already in, update your profile regularly! 2) Make sure you add the right keywords – they should match the topics open for funding; 3) Specify if you have experience in the financial management of projects.

The EU Mission Soil Newsletter is out. Subscribe! (05/09/2023)

Join a community of organisations, institutions, companies and individuals who share a common goal: to protect and restore soil health. Be informed about the Mission Soil activities, from the latest news and events to project updates, calls for proposals, policy developments and much more!

Securing Europe’s coastal regions (05/09/2023)

Did you know that over 200 million Europeans depend on healthy coastal ecosystems for their livelihoods? Unfortunately, rare events like coastal flooding will happen more regularly in the future. EU-funded research and innovation projects MaCoBios and FutureMARES work with ecosystems to protect our coasts from erosion.

To tackle wildfires, researchers in Europe team up with frontline forces (05/09/2023)

The EU is seeking to limit growing threats from blazes through the use of satellites, artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial vehicles. With the help of EU funding, Europe’s research community is joining forces with firefighters to prevent fires from spreading or from happening at all. Discover how the projects SAFERS and TREEADS are contributing.

European Regions and Cities week. Registration is open! (09/10/2023)

How can the regeneration of historic urban areas help to achieve climate-neutral cities? How to secure and restore our waters? Why co-creation is important? EU-funded projects managed by REA will try to answer these and more questions at the European Week of Regions and Cities Week.

A Mission Soil Week to expose the challenges and solutions for healthy soils (21/11/2023)

The European Mission Soil Week aims to bring together the European soil community to discuss the challenges for healthy soils. Researchers, experts, farmers, foresters, spatial planners, landowners and managers, businesses and organisations are invited to participate in the first event of this kind to expose the challenges and solutions to restore and protect our soils. Pre-registration is open.

161 project proposals submitted to reduce food waste, strengthen animal welfare, and support the adaptation of ecosystems (23/05/2023)

The three calls for proposals closed last month with applicants competing for EUR 325 million in funding. Evaluations are ongoing and successful projects will be informed in July. Funded projects should start their research as of December this year and are expected to help the EU deliver on its climate action goals set on the EU Green Deal.

Help us select the best research proposals to deliver on the EU Mission Soil (23/05/2023)

The Mission Soil 2023 calls for proposals will close in September. We are now looking for specialists in soil-related areas to help us evaluate and select the best project proposals for EU funding. If you would like to work with us as an evaluator, learn more about what you should do to get ready!

EuroGEO workshop 2023. Registration is open! (23/05/2023)

EuroGEO supports the co-design of Earth Observation-based tools, knowledge and policies. The EuroGEO workshop invites scientists, policy makers and users to discuss how to link national, European and global perspectives on pollution and biodiversity crises together. The workshop will take place in Bolzano, Italy, on 2-4 October. Register now!

EU research supports the European Year of Skills (23/05/2023)

This year is about empowering people with the necessary skills to build a greener and a healthier Europe. Projects like CENTRINNO, DESIRA, HEREWEAR and RURALIZATION are empowering communities with key skills needed for the circular economy, sustainable agriculture, forestry, and fashion. The aim is to help Digital and Green Transitions materialise in EU cities and rural areas.

Innovative research for sustainable fertiliser production and nutrient management (23/05/2023)

EU-funded research and innovation is accelerating Europe’s transition towards sustainable, resilient, circular and competitive farming systems. EU research projects are looking at how to produce fertilisers from alternative sources, such as digestate (the NOMAD project), and wastewater from slaughterhouses (Water2REturn) and farms (PSust-MOF). In addition, the need to understand and manage nutrient cycles and soil health is addressed by Circular Agronomics, Nutri2Cycle and NitroFixSal, while SolACE investigates new crop varieties.

World Bee Day: The EU-funded projects helping to protect bees (23/05/2023)

On 20 May we celebrated World Bee Day by highlighting the importance of pollinators across Europe. A number of EU-funded and REA managed projects contribute to their survival by fighting bee diseases (NO PROBLeMS), actively supporting healthy and sustainable beekeeping (PoshBee, B-GOOD) and improving pollination and honey production through AI technologies (Beewise).

Exploring the importance of ponds – the nature-based solutions protecting wildlife (23/05/2023)

Ponds have been largely overlooked but they are vital for biodiversity and could even help us adapt to climate change. EU-funded project PONDERFUL has produced a video to explain why ponds are important, what threats they face, and how the team behind this research project plans to protect them.

EU Maritime Day: latest developments in the blue economy and the marine environment (24/05/2023)

The REA managed projects MISSION ATLANTIC, REALM, AquaVitae and ASTRAL will be at the conference presenting innovative results and touch on topics such as ecosystem assessments, algae cultivation and sustainable value chains for integrated aquaculture. Discover what these and other EU-funded projects are doing for the blue economy, and the protection of our seas.

EU AgriResearch Conference 2023 (31/05/2023)

This year’s conference will focus on the future of the EU agricultural research and innovation agenda. The participants will engage with scientists, farmers, rural communities, industry, advisors, policymakers, citizens and NGO representatives – ready to provide an overview on their achievements.

EU Green Week. Delivering a net-zero world (08/06/2023)

In the frame of the EU Green Week (3-11 June) the EU-funded project VitiGEOSS will organise a webinar: ‘Vineyard monitoring with remote sensing data for sustainable practices in agriculture’. The project will present how data on phenology, evapotranspiration and biomass production can help prioritise decisions, discover invisible issues and support greener agriculture. Register online.

NetworkNature Annual event: maximising the impact of nature-based solutions (08/06/2023)

On 8 June the EU-funded project NetworkNature will be hosting its annual event: Enabling transformation through and for nature-based solutions, at the Flagey building in Brussels, Belgium. Through interviews, presentations, panel debates and interactive sessions, discover how nature-based solutions can help different sectors and communities with their transformative potential. Registration is still open.

339 projects proposals submitted to protect biodiversity, boost circular economy and address pollution in soils, air, and water (20/04/2023)

The three calls for proposals closed on 28 March. Applicants have requested €1.88 billion. The available budget for the three calls for funding is €442 million. The top represented countries in the project proposals submitted are Romania, Spain, Italy, and Germany. Some applicants come from Ukraine, Turkey, Tunisia, and Iceland. Evaluations are in progress. Successful projects will be informed around mid-August.

Innovative governance, environmental observations and digital solutions in support of the Green Deal: projects selection at the horizon! (20/04/2023)

Following the end of the call, on 23 March, there were 68 submitted proposals, with a EUR 307 million requested budget. The successful applicants will be announced by mid-July 2023, after a thorough expert evaluation planned for April-May 2023. The funded projects are expected to start their research as of December.

Sign the Mission Soil Manifesto (20/04/2023)

Become a friend of the Soil mission and join the cause by signing the newly launched Mission Soil Manifesto co-created by the EU Commission and The European Regions Research and Innovation Network (ERRIN). You can contribute as a legal entity (municipality, region, private or public company or organisation, education or research institution, association) or as an individual. After joining you have first-hand access to knowledge on soil health and the mission, as well as meet with and learn from others.

Mission Soil: three calls open now! Discover EU funding opportunities (20/04/2023)

Help improve soil literacy and awareness on soil health by applying to these three ongoing calls: EU Mission - A Soil Deal for Europe, EU Missions Ocean & waters and Soil and EU Missions Climate, Oceans & waters and Soil. The joint EU funding budget available is EUR 157 million. Submit your application by 20 and 23 of September and join the mission to restore and protect our soil!

Be the next winner of an EU Organic award (20/04/2023)

It's time to acknowledge different actors along the organic value chain that have developed an innovative, sustainable and inspiring project resulting in real added value for organic food production and consumption. The EU Organic Awards is waiting for your proposals for the second edition of the competition by 14 May 2023.

Supporting and developing scenarios and models of desirable futures for people with IPBES (20/04/2023)

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) invites the scientific community, in particular indigenous peoples and local communities, to the 10th session of the Plenary on 28 August-2 September 2023, in Bonn, Germany. The opportunities and limits of the Nature Futures Framework (NFF) will be discussed. NFF is a flexible tool that supports the development of scenarios and models of desirable futures for people, nature and Earth.

April is the Citizen Science Month (20/04/2023)

Every year, in April, we celebrate and encourage the many ways citizens can contribute to the scientific work of researchers. To mark the occasion, we selected four EU funded research projects that are actively contributing to the citizen science knowledge base through Horizon 2020. Discover REA-managed projects YouCount, EnviroCitizen, ALLINTERACT, and JoinUs4Health.

EU Knowledge Valorisation Week 2023 (25/04/2023)

The EU Guiding Principles for Knowledge Valorisation is the new pan-European initiative to turn research and innovation results into solutions more effectively through brand-new European Codes of Practice on intellectual assets management and standardisation. Register and join a forum of experience exchanges, novelty discoveries and peer learning to turn research and innovation results into real-life solutions.

EU Open Doors Day 2023 (06/05/2023)

On 6 May, the European Commission opens its doors. This year, researchers from Spain, Belgium and Germany will be in the Green Europe village to showcase their projects, preparing experiments and other interactive activities. Join us and learn more about EU-funded research and innovation and the projects REA manages.

EU AgriResearch Conference 2023 (31/05/2023)

This year, the focus will be on the future of the EU agricultural research and innovation agenda. The participants will engage with scientists, farmers, rural communities, industry, advisors, policymakers, citizens and NGO representatives – ready to provide an overview on their achievements. Register by 1 May and join the conversation!

Deadline for Cluster 6 calls for proposals fast approaching. Submit your proposals on time! (20/03/2023)

We are looking for innovative solutions to reduce food waste, strengthen animal welfare, and assess urban farming impacts. We are also looking for innovations to safeguard biodiversity, foster sustainable agriculture, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture and encourage the healthy use of land, oceans and waters. There are over 90 different topics open for submission with EUR 890 million in Horizon Europe funding available.

Call for proposals open to contribute to the EU Mission ‘Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030’ (20/03/2023)

The Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership, co-funded by the EU, has launched the first joint call for a thriving sustainable blue economy. Projects must be developed at a pan-European level and in the different European sea basins: the Mediterranean, the Black Sea, the Baltic Sea, the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The total estimated budget is about EUR 50 million. The deadline to apply is 14 April.

Are you submitting a proposal for Horizon Europe funding? Check out some crucial tips! (20/03/2023)

Submitting a project proposal under Horizon Europe is a challenging task that requires careful planning, precise budgeting, and a seamless collaboration with partners. We have prepared some Dos and Don’ts to help you prepare a quality proposal.

Gender equality at the heart of Horizon Europe. What to take into account when preparing your proposal? (20/03/2023)

In Horizon Europe, gender balance is a ranking criterion for proposals with an equal score. Gender Equality Plans (GEP) are an eligibility criterion for public bodies, research and higher education institutions. Gender dimension in research is a mandatory requirement in all research and innovation projects, unless a topic explicitly specifies otherwise.

New EU-supported Nature-based Solutions Hub launched in Ukraine (20/03/2023)

The EU-funded project NetworkNature, managed by REA, has partnered with WWF-Ukraine to launch the Ukraine Nature-based Solutions Hub. The Hub will help making post-war reconstruction of cities, communities, ecosystems, agriculture, and water management nature positive, climate resilient and inclusive. The Hub will also facilitate stronger networks between the EU and Ukraine’s research and innovation actors.

Happy International Day of Forests! Discover some of our projects restoring and protecting forests (21/03/2023)

EU research projects are actively contributing with knowledge, practical tools and innovative solutions to restore and protect soils in Europe and beyond. Discover Horizon 2020 projects SUPERB, HoliSoil, Rosewood 4.0 and HOMED.

The EU supports research to mitigate the impact of Xyllela Fastidiosa (20/03/2023)

Xyllela Fastidiosa has the potential to cause an annual production loss of EUR 5.5 billion of olive and other trees, and put nearly 300,000 jobs at risk. To address this problem, the EU funded Bexyl project, managed by REA, is developing concrete solutions to mitigate the impact of #Xyllela Fastidiosa in the EU. Blanca Landa, an agricultural engineer, is leading the project. Her team is using innovative methods like dog sniffing and aerial cameras to detect the spread of the bacteria and testing plants resistance.

How can microalgae contribute to a more sustainable and healthy food production in the EU? (20/03/2023)

An EU-funded project has developed farming products made from microalgae contributing to end the use of pesticides by 2030. The SABANA project, managed by REA, has found out that microalgae can purify local wastewater while producing natural fertilisers. The team of researchers isolated 10 different microorganisms able to provide biopesticides and to control fungai, insect and illnesses without using any chemicals.

Improving aquaculture’s competitiveness and sustainability in the EU (20/03/2023)

The EU-funded NewTechAqua project, managed by REA, has been recently featured as ‘project of the month’ in CORDIS, the European Commission's primary source of results from the projects funded by the EU's framework programmes for research and innovation. The project is providing cutting-edge training on fish nutrition and health and helping novel aquaculture solutions reach the market.

REA project at the United Nations Water Conference (22/03/2023)

The EU co-funded project Water4All Partnership, managed by REA, will take part in two of the interactive dialogues foreseen at the conference: on international cooperation, and on accelerating the implementation of the Water Action Decade’s objectives. Water4All and its partners will also take part in different side events on: collaborative innovation; the mainstreaming ecological restoration in freshwater ecosystems; transdisciplinary ecohydrology for the acceleration of SDG-methodology; and, inclusive science for water security.